Brad Marchand may no longer wear a Bruins jersey, but his impact on Boston continues to grow — and this time, it has nothing to do with goals, assists, or penalty minutes.
In a surprise announcement that stunned both the hockey world and local residents, Marchand revealed plans to invest $10.5 million of his personal wealth to convert his waterfront Boston property into a year-round shelter and resource center for homeless youth.
“This City Raised Me. Now It’s Time to Give Back.”
At a press conference attended by city officials, community leaders, and a host of Bruins alumni, Marchand spoke emotionally about the project, called The Nest. The name is a tribute to both his NHL nickname, “The Rat,” and the idea of creating a safe place for kids in crisis.
“This city gave me everything. The fans, the community — they embraced me, flaws and all. Now it’s my turn to embrace the kids who need it most,” Marchand said, fighting back tears.
The shelter will house up to 40 teens and young adults between ages 14-22, offering medical care, mental health services, GED and job training programs, and permanent housing transition plans.
A Bruins Legacy Beyond Hockey
Marchand’s initiative has sparked praise from former teammates and Bruins management. Patrice Bergeron, in a video message, called it “the most meaningful assist of Marchy’s career.” Mayor Michelle Wu, who attended the unveiling, said the shelter will “set a new standard for athlete-led philanthropy in the city of Boston.”
The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, and Marchand has committed to personally funding operations for at least five years.
In a city where legends are made on the ice, Marchand may have just built something far more lasting — off of it