๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐: Oklahoma Softball Star Alyssa Brito Invests $3.6 Million to Transform Home Into Shelter for Homeless Youth
June, 2025 | Norman, Oklahoma โ In a stunning act of generosity and leadership, Oklahoma Sooners softball standout Alyssa Brito has announced a $3.6 million personal investment to convert a historic home in Norman into a state-of-the-art shelter for homeless youth. The facility, which will be named โSooners Youth Haven,โ is set to open its doors later this year, providing emergency housing, counseling, and life-skill training for vulnerable youth in the area.
The announcement came just days after Brito and the Sooners concluded another successful postseason run, with Brito taking center stage not just for her on-field excellence, but now for her off-field impact as well.
โIโve been blessed with so much through this sport, this university, and this community,โ Brito said during a press conference held on the future site of the shelter. โItโs time to give back in a way that reaches beyond softball. There are too many young people out here with no safe place to sleep, no support, and no hope. I want to help change that.โ
The house, originally built in 1927 and located just minutes from the University of Oklahoma campus, will undergo an extensive renovation beginning this summer. The plan is to convert the 7-bedroom, 5-bathroom residence into a fully staffed youth shelter capable of housing up to 20 individuals at a time. Services will include mental health support, education and career counseling, meals, and mentorship programs led by OU student volunteers.
University officials, including OU Athletics Director Joe Castiglione and Head Softball Coach Patty Gasso, praised Britoโs leadership. โThis is what it means to be a Sooner,โ Gasso said. โAlyssaโs compassion, her heart, and her vision are inspiring. Sheโs always led with integrity, and today, sheโs showing the world the true power of purpose.โ
Britoโs initiative will partner with local nonprofits and the Norman Public Schools district to identify and support students most in need. She also confirmed plans to establish a scholarship fund for youth who graduate from the program and pursue college or vocational training.
With this bold move, Brito becomes not only a trailblazer in college athletics, but a community leader determined to create lasting change. โThis is just the beginning,โ Brito said. โWeโre going to build something beautifulโfor them, and for the future.โ
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