Jazz Chisholm Jr. Turns Compassion Into Action With $5 Million “Puppy Haven” Sanctuary
NEW YORK — Jazz Chisholm Jr. is known around baseball for his electric play, neon-blue hair, and highlight-reel moments. But on Tuesday, the New York Yankees infielder delivered a different kind of performance—one that might leave an even deeper impact. Chisholm officially opened “Puppy Haven,” a $5 million sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and caring for stray dogs across New York City.
Standing before a cheering crowd of animal lovers and Yankees fans, Chisholm spoke with the same energy he brings to Yankee Stadium but with a quiet passion that reflected the heart of his mission. “There are so many dogs left on the streets, uncared for, and without hope,” he said. “They deserve to be protected, healed, and given a home.”
The facility, located in a refurbished warehouse in Queens, is more than just a shelter. Puppy Haven features 24/7 veterinary care, spacious recovery areas, and a full spay-and-neuter program aimed at breaking the cycle of homelessness. The sanctuary also includes indoor and outdoor play zones, making it a safe and joyful environment for dogs in all stages of rehabilitation.
Chisholm, 27, explained that his inspiration came from witnessing the plight of stray animals during his offseason walks through city neighborhoods. “I kept seeing dogs wandering alone,” he said. “I realized I could use the platform baseball has given me to do something real, something lasting.”
Teammates and Yankees staff attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, many noting how Chisholm’s compassion extends beyond the diamond. “Jazz plays the game with flair, but this is bigger than baseball,” captain Aaron Judge said. “He’s giving a voice to those who can’t speak for themselves.”
The project was two years in the making, funded largely through Chisholm’s own earnings and a series of charity events he organized. The sanctuary plans to partner with local adoption agencies and community programs to ensure rescued dogs find permanent homes. Volunteer opportunities and educational workshops for schools are already scheduled for the coming months.
New York City animal welfare advocates hailed the effort as a potential model for other athlete-led initiatives. “This is transformative,” said Maria Torres, director of the NYC Animal Rescue Alliance. “Jazz is showing how sports figures can create lasting change when they invest their resources and their hearts.”
For Chisholm, the grand opening was both a celebration and a call to action. He encouraged fans to adopt, foster, or donate to help expand the sanctuary’s reach. “My greatest victory isn’t on the field,” he said, “it’s giving these little creatures the love and dignity they deserve.”
The Yankees infielder returned to the Bronx later that evening for the team’s homestand, but the glow of the morning event followed him. As he jogged onto the field for batting practice, fans in the stands held signs reading “Thank You, Jazz!” and “Puppy Haven Hero.”
In a season already filled with dramatic wins and highlight plays, Chisholm’s latest achievement stands apart. It is a reminder that the power of sports extends far beyond the scoreboard.
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