BREAKING: Ken Roczen Donates Entire $18.9 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Homeless Shelter in Mattstedt
motocross star Ken Roczen has announced the donation of his entire $18.9 million in bonus and sponsorship earnings to a homeless shelter project in his hometown of Mattstedt, Germany. The funds will be used to construct 150 housing units and provide 300 shelter beds, offering long-term relief to hundreds of individuals experiencing homelessness. The announcement came during a heartfelt press conference where Roczen spoke candidly about his motivations and personal experiences.
“I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up, and I knew if I ever had the means, I’d give back in a meaningful way,” Roczen stated. “No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk.” His words struck a powerful chord with attendees, many of whom were visibly emotional as he recounted memories of witnessing families struggle without shelter in his early years. Roczen, known for his resilience on the track, showed a different kind of strength—one rooted in empathy and community care.
The project, titled Shelter for Tomorrow, is expected to break ground within the next two months. It will include not only permanent and transitional housing but also support services such as mental health counseling, job training programs, and addiction recovery resources. Roczen has partnered with local nonprofit organizations and the Mattstedt city council to ensure the initiative is carried out sustainably and effectively. City officials have praised Roczen’s commitment, calling it a “transformative moment” for the region.
Mayor Anika Stein of Mattstedt expressed deep gratitude for Roczen’s contribution, stating, “This is more than a financial gift—it’s a gesture of love and unity. Ken’s donation will not only change lives, it will save them.” According to city estimates, the facility could cut the local homelessness rate by over 70% in its first two years of operation. The city also plans to name a community center within the shelter in Roczen’s honor.
This move sets a powerful precedent for athletes and celebrities around the world. While many contribute to charitable causes, Roczen’s decision to donate the entirety of his recent earnings is unprecedented in motorsport history. Fans and fellow riders have flooded social media with praise and admiration,
Ken Roczen’s generosity is not only a beacon of hope for the homeless in Mattstedt, but also a rallying cry for a broader cultural shift toward empathy and action. As Roczen said in closing, “I don’t want a statue or a street named after me—I want people to look back and know that we made a real difference. That’s the legacy I care about.”
