🏠💪 “NO ONE LEFT BEHIND”: COLLINGWOOD WHEELCHAIR FOOTBALL CAPTAIN BEN JANKOVSKI INVESTS $5.8 MILLION TO TRANSFORM ABANDONED HOUSES INTO SHELTERS FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH DISABILITIES — WITH MONTHLY FOOD SUPPORT FROM COACH CRAIG McRAE 🖤🤍
In an act of compassion that’s winning hearts across Australia, Collingwood Wheelchair Football Club captain Ben Jankovski has announced a groundbreaking $5.8 million personal investment aimed at transforming abandoned homes across Victoria into safe, modern shelters for people living with disabilities.
The initiative, titled “Project Second Chance”, will see dozens of derelict or unused properties turned into accessible housing units complete with ramps, medical alert systems, and adaptive equipment to support residents’ independence. Each renovated home will not only provide safety and comfort but also foster a sense of belonging and dignity for individuals who have too often been overlooked.
Speaking during the emotional press conference at the Holden Centre, Jankovski said:
> “This isn’t charity—it’s community. Too many people with disabilities are struggling to find a place that truly feels like home. I know what it’s like to fight for accessibility and respect, and I want to make sure no one else has to fight alone.”
What makes this story even more powerful is the backing of Collingwood senior coach Craig McRae, who pledged to fund a monthly food and essentials supply program for the residents of these shelters. McRae, deeply moved by Jankovski’s vision, emphasized that football isn’t just about winning games—it’s about winning for humanity.
> “Ben’s leadership goes beyond the court. His strength, empathy, and vision for this project embody everything Collingwood stands for,” McRae said. “If we can support this with food, care packages, and community visits every month, then we’re doing our job not just as a club, but as human beings.”
Construction on the first group of homes is set to begin next month in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, where a series of long-abandoned buildings will be completely refurbished by local volunteers, builders, and Collingwood fans. The initiative will also create employment opportunities for people with disabilities in maintenance, administration, and food coordination roles—further reinforcing Jankovski’s belief in inclusion through action.
Fans and fellow players have taken to social media to praise the captain’s leadership, with hashtags like #NoOneLeftBehind, #ProjectSecondChance, and #CollingwoodCares trending nationwide.
Jankovski’s teammates describe him as “a true inspiration,” not only for his achievements on the court but for his commitment to making the world a fairer place off it. One teammate shared,
> “Ben is the kind of leader who doesn’t just talk about change—he builds it, brick by brick.”
The Collingwood Football Club has also confirmed that several players from the AFL men’s and women’s teams will volunteer regularly at the shelters, spending time with residents, hosting small fitness sessions, and even organizing community barbecues.
As the first renovations get underway, Jankovski’s message continues to echo beyond the football field:
> “Disability doesn’t define anyone—opportunity does. If this project gives even one person hope, then every dollar is worth it.”
With his powerful initiative and the unwavering support from Craig McRae and the Collingwood community, Ben Jankovski is proving that true leadership is measured not by medals, but by how many lives you uplift. 🖤🤍
