NEWS: Penrith Panthers Rising Star Halfback Nathan Cleary Invests $7.5 Million to Transform House Into Shelter for Homeless Youth
Penrith, NSW – May 5, 2025 — In a powerful gesture of community leadership and compassion, Penrith Panthers’ star halfback Nathan Cleary has announced a $7.5 million personal investment to convert a multi-million dollar property into a shelter for homeless youth in Western Sydney.
The 27-year-old rugby league icon, already revered for his excellence on the field, is now earning widespread admiration off it. Cleary’s newly purchased mansion in Glenmore Park will be transformed into a fully staffed, long-term housing facility aimed at providing safety, support, and stability for vulnerable young people experiencing homelessness.
“I’ve always believed that if you’re in a position to help others, you should,” Cleary said at a press conference on Monday. “There are too many young people on the streets or in unsafe living situations. This is about giving them a chance to reset, rebuild, and feel valued.”
The project, in partnership with local nonprofit Youth Haven NSW, will feature 12 private rooms, counseling spaces, a learning center, and recreational facilities. The initiative will also provide access to mental health services, job readiness training, and education support, all housed within a welcoming, community-driven environment.
Youth Haven NSW Director Lisa Thomsen praised Cleary’s unprecedented donation: “This is more than charity — it’s a transformative act of leadership. Nathan’s vision will have a lasting impact on countless young lives.”
Cleary’s move comes amid a broader conversation about youth homelessness in Australia, where more than 40,000 people under the age of 25 experience homelessness each year, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Experts say community-driven efforts like Cleary’s can play a critical role in addressing these challenges at the grassroots level.
Fellow Panthers teammates and club management have also voiced strong support for the initiative, with some players already expressing interest in volunteering or raising additional funds.
Though still in the early stages, construction and renovations are expected to begin in late June, with the goal of opening the facility by early 2026.
“This isn’t about publicity,” Cleary added. “It’s about using what I’ve been blessed with to help those who haven’t had the same chances. Rugby has given me a platform — now it’s time to do something meaningful with it.”
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