In a stunning act of generosity that is already sending shockwaves across the sports world, Montreal Canadiens left winger Juraj Slafkovský has donated the entirety of his recent $10 million performance bonus and endorsement earnings to charity. The 20-year-old NHL standout announced his decision on Friday, pledging to support homelessness initiatives and youth-focused charities across Canada and Slovakia.

 

 

The announcement came during a press conference held at the Bell Centre, where Slafkovský—humble as ever—told a packed media gallery, “This is about giving back to people who’ve never had a break. Hockey gave me everything, and now it’s my turn to give something real in return.”

 

The Breakdown of the Gift

 

Slafkovský’s donation is being channeled into several high-impact areas:

 

$4 million will go to Canadian nonprofits focused on combating homelessness in major cities including Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.

 

$3 million will be directed to youth development organizations that provide mentorship, education, and sports programs to underprivileged kids.

 

$2 million will be donated to charities in Slovakia, including youth hockey programs and shelters in his hometown of Košice.

 

$1 million will fund a new personal initiative: the Slafkovský Foundation for Hope, aimed at building transitional housing centers for young people at risk of homelessness in Quebec.

 

“He’s the youngest guy on the roster but already one of the biggest leaders,” said Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki. “To see someone his age make this kind of decision—it’s beyond impressive. It’s inspiring.”

 

From Rising Star to Role Model

 

Drafted first overall by the Canadiens in 2022, Slafkovský entered the league with massive expectations. Known for his powerful skating, physical play, and sharp hockey IQ, he quickly became a fan favorite in Montreal. But even with the glare of the spotlight, he has consistently shown a maturity beyond his years.

 

Off the ice, Slafkovský has remained deeply connected to his roots. He often speaks about his childhood in Slovakia, where his family sometimes struggled financially. “We didn’t always have everything we wanted,” he said. “But we had love, community, and a sense that things could get better. That hope kept us going.”

 

Making a Lasting Impact

 

Leaders across the nonprofit and political spheres were quick to applaud Slafkovský’s gift.

 

“Rarely do we see someone so young take such a massive, meaningful stand,” said Claire Beauchamp, Executive Director of Homeless Montréal. “This money will allow us to expand shelter capacity, provide job training, and fund mental health services that save lives.”

 

Back in Slovakia, the news sparked headlines of its own. Pavol Gaborik, director of the Slovak Youth Hockey Association, called Slafkovský a “once-in-a-generation talent with a once-in-a-generation heart.”

 

The Canadiens organization confirmed that Slafkovský’s donation came from his most recent season performance bonus and a new endorsement contract with an international athletic brand. While other players have used endorsement money for personal luxuries, Slafkovský made a different choice.

 

“I live a dream every time I put on the Canadiens sweater,” he said. “I don’t need more stuff. But there are people who need a roof over their head tonight. That’s what matters.”

 

More Than a Gesture

 

This donation is not a one-time act. Slafkovský said he plans to be “hands-on” with the new foundation, visiting shelters, helping fundraise, and even bringing teammates along to volunteer.

 

The Slafkovský Foundation for Hope will launch in late 2025, with its first transitional housing site already in development on the outskirts of Montreal. The facility will provide short-term housing, counseling services, and job training programs for at-risk youth.

 

“We don’t want to just give people shelter,” Slafkovský said. “We want to give them a future.”

 

Fans, Teammates, and the NHL Respond

 

Social media exploded with praise for Slafkovský’s selfless move. The hashtag #SlafGivesHope trended across Canada within hours, and tributes poured in from around the NHL and beyond.

 

Commissioner Gary Bettman issued a statement saying, “Juraj Slafkovský’s decision exemplifies the very best of our game. He is not only an extraordinary athlete but an extraordinary human being.”

 

Teammate Cole Caufield summed up what many were thinking: “Slaf just showed the world what kind of person he is. He’s a star—and not just on the ice.”

 

As the Canadiens look to the future, one thing is clear: their young winger is not only helping lead a rebuild on the ice, but building something far greater off of it.