**MINNESOTA UPDATE: Wild Star Kirill Kaprizov Donates \$1.8 Million Bonus and Endorsement Contract to Charities and Homelessness Support Organizations**
In a remarkable act of generosity, Minnesota Wild winger Kirill Kaprizov has donated his entire \$1.8 million performance bonus and recent endorsement earnings to a series of charities and organizations dedicated to fighting homelessness and supporting vulnerable communities across Minnesota and beyond.
The 27-year-old Russian winger, widely regarded as one of the NHL’s most electrifying talents, earned the bonus after another standout season in which he notched 90 points and helped lead the Wild to a playoff berth. Kaprizov also signed a lucrative endorsement contract earlier this year with a major North American outdoor apparel brand. Rather than keeping the money, he has chosen to give it all away in an effort to make a direct impact on the community that has embraced him since his NHL debut in 2021.
“I’ve been given so much through hockey — opportunities, support, and a platform,” Kaprizov said in a translated statement. “Now it’s time to give back, especially to those who don’t have a roof over their heads or a warm place to sleep at night. No one should be left behind.”
Kaprizov’s \$1.8 million gift will be divided among several non-profit organizations in Minnesota, including People Serving People, Simpson Housing Services, and Avivo. These groups provide emergency shelter, transitional housing, mental health services, job training, and long-term support to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. A portion of the funds will also go toward creating winter survival kits, providing warm clothing and supplies to those living unsheltered during harsh Minnesota winters.
Leaders of these organizations were stunned by the donation. “It’s rare to see someone of Kirill’s stature make a commitment like this,” said Christine Morse of Simpson Housing. “This isn’t just about money — it’s about heart, and his gesture will change hundreds of lives.”
In addition to financial support, Kaprizov has expressed interest in becoming more personally involved. According to team representatives, he plans to visit shelters and support programs during the off-season to better understand the needs of the communities he’s helping.
The donation has drawn praise from across the hockey world. Minnesota Wild General Manager Bill Guerin called Kaprizov’s actions “a reflection of the character we’ve always known he has — humble, kind, and deeply compassionate.” Several of his teammates, inspired by his gesture, have pledged to make contributions of their own, including donating gear and time to community outreach initiatives.
Kaprizov’s decision comes at a time when Minnesota is grappling with a rise in homelessness, particularly in urban areas like Minneapolis and St. Paul. His contribution sends a strong message about the role professional athletes can play in addressing societal challenges — not only as performers on the ice but as leaders in the community.
For Wild fans, Kaprizov’s loyalty and brilliance on the ice have made him a star. But with this act of selflessness, he’s now becoming something even greater: a symbol of hope, compassion, and the power of using one’s platform for good.
