BREAKING NEWS: Ronnie O’Sullivan Invests $2.7 Million to Transform Homes for Homeless Youth in Groundbreaking Housing Initiative
London, UK – September 25, 2025
In an inspiring and unexpected turn, professional snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan has stepped beyond the world of sport to address one of Britain’s most pressing social issues — youth homelessness. The seven-time world snooker champion announced today that he is investing $2.7 million USD (approximately £2.1 million GBP) of his own money to convert vacant and derelict properties across the UK into safe, supportive housing for homeless and at-risk youth.
The initiative, dubbed “Rocket Homes”, will begin in London, Manchester, and Sheffield, where homelessness rates among 16-25-year-olds have skyrocketed in recent years. In his announcement, O’Sullivan described the move as “the most meaningful break” he’s ever attempted — not on the snooker table, but in the lives of those who have been “abandoned, overlooked, or left behind.”
> “I’ve had second chances in my life,” said O’Sullivan at a press conference held in East London. “Not everyone gets that. Some kids are just trying to survive, sleep safe, and find purpose. If I can help them stand on their feet and see a future — then I’ll know I’ve done something worth more than any trophy
A Champion’s New Mission
Long regarded as a genius on the baize, Ronnie O’Sullivan has dazzled fans for over three decades with his lightning-fast play and unmatched flair. But behind the spotlight, O’Sullivan has battled personal demons — including mental health struggles and a turbulent upbringing.
“I’ve slept in cars, on sofas, spent nights walking because I had nowhere to go. People don’t know that side of me,” he said. “But it never left me. I see kids now going through it, and I think — I was lucky. They might not be.”
That empathy has now taken form in Rocket Homes: a housing and mentorship initiative that combines affordable accommodation, wraparound social services, and personal development programs tailored for homeless and vulnerable youth.
The Blueprint: Homes, Not Hostels
Unlike traditional shelters or emergency housing, Rocket Homes aims to provide a “dignified, stable, and permanent” living situation. The initial $2.7 million investment will be used to acquire and refurbish 12 properties in the first phase — mostly vacant terrace homes, small apartment blocks, or former council housing — in partnership with local councils and regeneration groups.
Each home will house 6 to 10 young people, each with their own private room. The houses will include:
Shared kitchens and communal lounges
Mental health and trauma-informed care support
On-site career and education mentoring
Substance recovery programs (optional)
Access to financial literacy workshops, apprenticeships, and creative outlets (including snooker, boxing, and art)
A dedicated support team — including social workers, peer mentors, and life coaches — will live or work in the homes full-time to foster trust, stability, and progression.
> “We’re not just handing out keys,” said Amina Powell, a youth advocate brought on to co-lead the project. “We’re building homes, hope, and long-term opportunity.”
Where It Starts: East London Pilot
The pilot site, already under renovation, is located in Bethnal Green, East London — not far from where O’Sullivan grew up. The house, a Victorian terrace that had stood empty for six years, is being transformed into a bright, modern communal space for eight residents aged 17 to 24.
The property is expected to open in December 2025, just in time for the holiday season — a time when thousands of young people find themselves alone, cold, or on the streets.
The initial intake will be made in partnership with youth homelessness charities including Centrepoint, Depaul UK, and New Horizon Youth Centre. Priority will be given to those aging out of the foster care system or currently in precarious housing arrangements like hostels, sofa-surfing, or temporary accommodations.
The Bigger Picture: Ambition Beyond Snooker
While this is Ronnie O’Sullivan’s first foray into the housing sector, he’s no stranger to speaking out on social issues. He has long been a vocal advocate for mental health, rehabilitation, and community reinvestment.
This latest move marks a more structured and enduring effort — and sources close to O’Sullivan suggest it may not stop at $2.7 million. Talks are already underway with private philanthropists, construction firms, and government agencies to explore co-investment and tax-subsidized expansion.
> “Ronnie’s putting his own money on the line,” said Powell. “But he’s also challenging the system to step up. This isn’t about charity — it’s about justice.”
O’Sullivan has also hinted that part of the homes’ social programming may include snooker-based therapy and training, with local halls donating tables and coaches offering free lessons.
“Snooker kept me alive during some dark times,” he said. “There’s something about the discipline, the silence, the focus — it can teach you a lot about yourself.”
Voices from the Ground
The reaction from social workers, advocates, and formerly homeless youth has been overwhelmingly positive.
Tariq Ahmed, 22, who experienced homelessness after leaving care at 18, said:
> “I never thought I’d see someone like Ronnie O’Sullivan care about people like me. Not just say it, but do something. That gives me hope.”
Others echoed the sentiment, calling the project “a wake-up call for the sporting world” and “a rare example of celebrity money being used where it truly matters.”
What’s Next?
The Rocket Homes foundation is set to become fully operational by early 2026, with a goal of creating at least 100 beds by 2027. A public website and donation portal will launch in October, and O’Sullivan has pledged that all earnings from his upcoming book and exhibition matches will be funneled directly into the initiative.
As he wrapped up his announcement, O’Sullivan paused for a moment — uncharacteristically emotional — before speaking directly to the press and public:
“Snooker gave me a life. This is my way of giving something back.
If even one kid gets off the street and finds their path — that’ll be the best win I’ve ever had.”
