BREAKING NEWS: Arizona State Sun Devils’ Rising Legend Cam Skattebo Invests $7.5 Million to Transform House Into Shelter for Homeless Youth in Manchester
Manchester, NH — May 26, 2025
In a stunning act of generosity and compassion, Arizona State Sun Devils football star Cam Skattebo has announced a $7.5 million personal investment to convert a historic Manchester estate into a full-service shelter for homeless youth. The 23-year-old running back, already considered one of college football’s most electrifying players and an emerging NFL prospect, made the surprise announcement at a press conference Monday morning alongside local officials and nonprofit leaders.
Skattebo, who was raised in a working-class family in California before transferring to Arizona State from Sacramento State in 2023, has often spoken about his commitment to social impact. But few anticipated the scale and swiftness of this latest endeavor.
“This isn’t just about putting a roof over someone’s head,” Skattebo said, standing on the steps of the 120-year-old Victorian mansion he purchased earlier this year. “This is about building a future—giving kids who have lost everything a place to heal, to grow, and to dream.”
The property, located on the west side of Manchester, had been vacant for years and was facing demolition before Skattebo purchased it outright. With his personal contribution, renovations will begin immediately to transform the house into a 30-bed transitional housing facility. The shelter, named “Skattebo Haven,” will offer more than just a warm bed. The space will include counseling rooms, classrooms, a fitness area, and onsite mentorship programs led by educators, former athletes, and volunteers.
Local nonprofit “Safe Steps New England” will manage day-to-day operations, supported by a coalition of community partners. The shelter aims to open by spring 2026 and will specifically cater to homeless and at-risk youth between the ages of 14 and 21.
Manchester Mayor Emily Richard hailed Skattebo’s gesture as “one of the most meaningful investments in our youth this city has ever seen.”
“This is more than a donation—this is leadership,” she said. “Cam Skattebo is not just a football player. He’s a builder of hope and a symbol of what it means to give back.”
Skattebo’s act is already drawing national attention, with social media flooded with praise from fans, fellow athletes, and public figures. NFL veteran and Arizona State alum Terrell Suggs tweeted, “What Cam’s doing is bigger than football. That’s legacy work.”
While Skattebo remains focused on his final season with the Sun Devils, insiders say his decision to invest in New Hampshire stems from a summer internship he did in the state during high school, where he volunteered with a local youth outreach program.
“This state changed me,” he said. “I saw struggle here, but I also saw community. I promised myself that if I ever had the chance to make a difference, I’d come back.”
Arizona State Head Coach Kenny Dillingham also praised his star player. “Cam’s heart is as strong as his game. He brings that same passion to everything he does—whether it’s on the field or in the community.”
As Skattebo continues to build his legacy both on and off the field, “Skattebo Haven” stands to be a lasting testament to the power of compassion, commitment, and using one’s platform for good.
Construction on the shelter begins this summer, with volunteer recruitment and donation matching initiatives launching next month. Those wishing to contribute to the project or volunteer can visit www.skattebohaven.org.
This is a developing story.
