In an act of extraordinary compassion and leadership, Oklahoma Sooners softball star Alyssa Brito has made headlines off the field by investing $3.6 million of her own money to transform a historic Oklahoma City house into a shelter for homeless youth. The news, which broke Monday morning, has sparked a wave of admiration across the sports and humanitarian communities, positioning Brito as a symbol of hope, generosity, and unshakable purpose far beyond the softball diamond.
The 22-year-old standout, known for her clutch hitting and fierce leadership with the Sooners, has long been vocal about issues surrounding youth homelessness. However, no one expected a gesture of this magnitude. According to sources close to Brito, this project has been in the works for over a year, fueled by her desire to give back to the community that has supported her athletic journey and personal growth. The shelter, tentatively named “Safe Steps,” will serve as a long-term housing and rehabilitation center for young people between the ages of 14 and 21 who are struggling with homelessness, abandonment, or the foster care system.
Brito’s decision to fund the shelter in its entirety comes at a time when many athletes are beginning to leverage their influence and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) earnings for social good. While many make charitable donations, few take on such a comprehensive and hands-on role in the development of a full-scale community initiative. Brito, however, has never been one to do things halfway. From the moment she burst onto the college softball scene, she’s demonstrated a fierce drive, impeccable character, and a heart for service that matches her athletic excellence.
The $3.6 million investment will cover not only the purchase and full renovation of the 10-bedroom home but also the hiring of licensed counselors, nutritionists, educators, and around-the-clock staff to provide the youth with a stable and nurturing environment. The shelter will include a learning center, art and music therapy rooms, a recreational area, and private counseling spaces. Brito has already partnered with several local nonprofits and mental health organizations to ensure that the facility offers comprehensive care tailored to the needs of its residents.
In a brief but emotional statement released through the Oklahoma athletics department, Brito shared her motivation behind the project: “I’ve been incredibly blessed through softball, my family, and my faith. But not every kid gets that same chance. I want to build a place where young people feel safe, loved, and seen. A place where healing begins and futures are rewritten.”
Teammates, coaches, and fans have flooded social media with praise, calling the move “game-changing,” “inspiring,” and “one of the most selfless acts by an athlete in recent memory.” Head coach Patty Gasso described Brito as “a rare kind of leader who sees the world not just as it is, but how it could be—and then does something about it.”
Though Brito is still in the midst of a highly competitive season with national title hopes on the horizon, she’s been quietly making site visits between games and practices, often working late into the night to finalize blueprints, conduct interviews with potential staff, and meet with at-risk youth in the area to better understand their needs. According to one team source, “She’s all in on this. It’s not just a project—it’s her passion.”
The timing of the announcement is also meaningful. May is National Foster Care Month in the United States, a time to raise awareness about the challenges facing youth in foster care and the systemic obstacles they often encounter after aging out. According to recent data from the National Alliance to End Homelessness, more than 4.2 million youth and young adults experience homelessness in the U.S. every year, with Oklahoma ranking among the states with the highest per capita rates. Many of these young people face trauma, abuse, addiction, and mental health challenges that go unaddressed in the absence of stable housing and support systems.
By creating a space that not only provides shelter but prioritizes healing and growth, Brito hopes to change the trajectory of countless lives. The shelter is expected to open its doors in early 2026, with construction and staff training beginning this fall. In addition to funding the project, Brito will also serve as the face of an ongoing awareness campaign aimed at addressing youth homelessness across Oklahoma. She’s scheduled to appear at several speaking engagements over the summer, including a joint panel with former homeless youth who are now advocates, educators, and entrepreneurs.
Her efforts have already drawn national media attention, with major outlets like ESPN, USA Today, and The New York Times requesting interviews. The NCAA also released a statement applauding Brito’s initiative, calling it “a powerful reminder of the good that can come when student-athletes use their platform to make lasting impact.”
But those who know Brito best say the attention is the last thing on her mind. “She’s not doing this for headlines,” said assistant coach JT Gasso. “She’s doing this because she believes every kid deserves a chance—and she’s willing to put her money, time, and heart into making that a reality.”
Brito’s story is especially resonant given her own upbringing. While she was not homeless, she has spoken in past interviews about experiencing hardship, including financial instability and long periods of being raised by extended family while her parents worked to build a more secure life. Those early struggles, she said, gave her perspective and a deep empathy for others whose challenges are even greater.
The response from the local community has been overwhelming. Several Oklahoma businesses have already pledged donations and support services, including food, clothing, job placement assistance, and transportation for the youth who will live at Safe Steps. The University of Oklahoma has also expressed interest in offering educational partnerships, such as GED prep courses and early college access programs.
Perhaps most telling is how Brito’s teammates describe her influence. “She plays with fire, but she loves with grace,” said fellow senior Kinzie Hansen. “I’ve never met someone with a heart as big as hers. She makes all of us better—not just players, but people.”
As the Sooners prepare for another potential championship run, Brito has managed to balance her athletic goals with a purpose-driven mission that will outlast any trophy or accolade. She is, quite simply, redefining what it means to be a student-athlete in today’s world—one investment, one shelter, and one life at a time.