Hannah Hidalgo Fulfills Her Mother’s Dream by Funding Community Shelter to Support Women and Children in Need
South Bend, IN – July 20, 2025 — Rising college basketball star Hannah Hidalgo has taken a powerful step off the court to make a lasting impact in her community, honoring her mother’s dream of creating a safe space for women and children facing hardship. Hidalgo has committed $150,000 from NIL earnings and personal contributions to help transform a local building into a welcoming shelter that will offer housing, counseling, education, and support services.
The project, named “Maria’s House” in honor of her mother, reflects the Notre Dame guard’s deep-rooted values of family, faith, and service. “My mom always talked about creating a place where women could feel safe, rebuild, and be supported,” Hidalgo shared. “This shelter is a tribute to her vision and to every woman who needs a second chance.”
“Maria’s House” will serve up to 20 families at a time and partner with local nonprofits to provide wraparound services including trauma support, job training, and childcare assistance. The shelter is set to open in early 2026 and has already received praise from community leaders and fans alike.
Coach Niele Ivey called Hidalgo’s gesture “a perfect example of using your platform for good.” She added, “Hannah is a fierce competitor on the court and a compassionate leader off of it.”
At just 20 years old, Hidalgo continues to inspire not only with her athletic talent but with a heart dedicated to giving back. Her contribution marks the beginning of what she hopes will be a long tradition of athletes driving positive change.
