BREAKING NEWS: Ottawa Senators’ Tim Stützle Invests $3.6 Million to Create Shelter for Homeless Youth in Tennessee After Life-Changing Encounter
By Jordan Avery | Sports & Society Desk | May 6, 2025
NASHVILLE, TN — In a bold and heartwarming move that has taken both the sports world and humanitarian community by surprise, Tim Stützle, star forward for the Ottawa Senators, has invested $3.6 million of his personal earnings to transform a historic estate in East Nashville into a state-of-the-art shelter for homeless youth.
The announcement was made early this morning during a joint press conference with Nashville Mayor Tanesha Rollins and representatives from the local nonprofit “Second Wind,” who will operate the facility.
Stützle, 23, known for his electric play on the ice and quiet demeanor off it, stunned reporters with a deeply personal account of the inspiration behind the investment.
A Night That Changed Everything
“I was in Nashville during the All-Star break back in February,” Stützle began. “After a dinner with some teammates, I decided to take a walk alone. That’s when I met Elijah.”
According to Stützle, Elijah was a 17-year-old living on the streets after being kicked out of his home for aging out of foster care. They spoke for nearly two hours. Elijah shared stories of shelters at capacity, nights on benches in Centennial Park, and dreams of becoming a social worker. The next morning, Stützle couldn’t shake the encounter.
“I couldn’t stop thinking about it,” he said. “I’ve had everything—family, support, security. And here was this kid, brilliant and kind, completely let down by the system.”
Elijah disappeared days later. Tim tried to find him through outreach workers and even posted anonymously on Reddit and community message boards. He never did. But in the void left behind, an idea took root.
From Mansion to Mission
The house in question is a 10-bedroom Victorian estate once owned by a country music producer. Stützle purchased the property in March under a blind trust and quietly began renovations weeks later. Today, the house—renamed “Elijah House”—is nearly complete.
The facility will offer housing for up to 24 youth aged 16 to 22, along with counseling services, educational resources, job training, and access to mental health professionals. Rooms are private, the kitchen is communal, and the backyard includes a small stage where residents can express themselves through music, poetry, or open-mic nights.
“It’s not a shelter in the traditional sense,” said Andrea Voss, Executive Director of Second Wind. “This is a home. It’s a place where these young people can heal and build futures.”
Why Tennessee?
Many questioned why a German-born NHL player, drafted by a Canadian team, would invest so heavily in a cause thousands of miles from home.
“It’s not about where you’re from,” Stützle said simply. “It’s about who needs you.”
Stützle said the choice was partly because of Elijah, but also because Tennessee has one of the fastest-growing populations of homeless youth in the U.S., according to data from the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
“Tim could’ve picked Toronto, Berlin, or Ottawa,” Mayor Rollins said. “But he chose us. And for that, our city owes him not just thanks, but action.”
Senators, Teammates React
Back in Ottawa, news of Stützle’s investment hit the Senators locker room moments before their morning skate.
“I’m not surprised,” said Brady Tkachuk, team captain and Stützle’s close friend. “He’s got a heart the size of Canada. He never does things for the spotlight—he just does what’s right.”
Senators GM Steve Staios released a statement praising Stützle’s “integrity, compassion, and vision beyond the rink,” and hinted the team may launch a matching initiative tied to goals or assists next season.
The NHL’s Growing Social Impact
Stützle’s move adds to a growing trend of NHL players using their platform for social good. In recent years, P.K. Subban’s hospital donation and Blake Wheeler’s activism have opened doors for athletes to step beyond the realm of sports.
“It’s a new era,” said sports sociologist Dr. Kim Navarro. “Athletes like Stützle see themselves as global citizens. This isn’t charity—it’s legacy-building.”
What’s Next for Elijah House?
The shelter is expected to open officially in mid-June, just after the NHL playoffs. Stützle has vowed to be there for the ribbon-cutting, playoffs or not.
“I won’t miss it,” he said with a smile.
He also plans to establish a scholarship fund and internship pipeline through partnerships with local businesses and Nashville State Community College.
Most notably, he has set aside another $400,000 in operating costs for the next three years, to ensure Elijah House can remain open without scrambling for immediate grants.
“People think 3.6 million is a lot,” Stützle added, “but it’s not as much as it should be. These kids deserve way more.”
No Press, No Problem
Despite his fame, Stützle declined all major television interviews and requested that no cameras enter Elijah House unless approved by residents. “This isn’t about me being a hero. The real heroes are the ones surviving each night out there.”
As for Elijah—the boy who sparked it all—Stützle’s voice caught when asked if he believed they’d ever meet again.
“I hope so,” he said quietly. “If he ever sees this—I just want him to know he mattered. He changed me.”