- BREAKING NEWS: South Carolina Women’s Basketball Rising Star MiLaysia Fulwiley Invests $4.3 Million to Transform Homes into Shelters for the Homeless
In an inspiring act of compassion and leadership, South Carolina women’s basketball standout MiLaysia Fulwiley has made headlines for a powerful reason beyond the court. The rising star has invested a staggering $4.3 million into a housing initiative aimed at transforming abandoned or underutilized homes into shelters for the homeless. Her goal? To provide safe, warm spaces for those in need while setting a new standard for athlete-driven community action.
The project, titled “HomeCourt Shelters,” will begin in Columbia, South Carolina — Fulwiley’s hometown — where the issue of homelessness has become increasingly visible. In a press conference, Fulwiley spoke with emotion about the motivation behind the initiative. “I’ve seen people sleeping on benches, in doorways, under bridges — people who look like me, who could be me if life had taken a different turn,” she said. “I wanted to do more than give back; I wanted to build something lasting.”
The $4.3 million investment will fund the purchase and renovation of dozens of neglected properties across the city. Each shelter will be equipped with beds, bathrooms, food storage areas, and access to social services, including mental health support, job placement programs, and childcare. The first set of renovated homes is expected to be ready for occupancy by late summer 2025.
Fulwiley’s vision extends far beyond charity — it’s about changing systems. “This isn’t just about putting a roof over someone’s head,” she explained. “It’s about giving them a chance to stand on their own two feet, to rebuild their lives with dignity.”
Community leaders, teammates, and fans have praised Fulwiley not just for her athletic talent, but for her heart and leadership. “She’s not just a star on the court, she’s a light in our city,” said Coach Dawn Staley. “MiLaysia is showing what it means to use your platform with purpose.”
At just 19 years old, Fulwiley is proving that age and fame don’t limit one’s capacity to create meaningful change. As her basketball career continues to soar, so too does her impact off the court — and this bold move may inspire other athletes to follow her lead.
In a world often dominated by headlines of controversy and scandal, MiLaysia Fulwiley’s story is a powerful reminder that greatness isn’t just measured in points or trophies, but in the lives you lift along the way.