Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson Donates $1 Million to Transform Childhood Home into Shelter for the Needy, Fulfilling Mother’s Lifelong Wish
Los Angeles, CA – July 20, 2025
In a heartfelt move that blends philanthropy with personal legacy, global superstar and entrepreneur Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has donated $1 million to transform his childhood home in Hayward, California into a community shelter for families in need—honoring a dream long held by his mother, Ata Johnson.
The project, dubbed “Ata’s Haven,” will serve as a transitional housing facility for single mothers and displaced families, offering them access to temporary housing, meals, childcare, and job placement services.
“This is more than just bricks and walls,” Johnson said in a video statement shared on Instagram. “This house was once a place of struggle for my family. My mother always dreamed that one day, it could be a place of hope for others. Today, we’re making that dream a reality.”
Johnson recounted the difficult times they faced growing up, including periods of homelessness and financial hardship. “We were evicted from this house when I was 14,” he shared. “Now, it’s going to be a place where families can rebuild their lives.”
The shelter is expected to open in early 2026 and will be operated in partnership with a local nonprofit organization. Johnson’s donation will cover renovations, staffing, and operating costs for the first two years.
Ata Johnson, visibly emotional during the announcement, called the gesture “the greatest gift a mother could ever receive.”
