A homeless shelter in Chicago has reportedly returned several bags of donated Angel Reese jerseys and shoes, sparking a wave of discussion across social media and raising broader questions about the practicality, perception, and priorities of charitable giving.
According to sources close to the situation, the donation—consisting primarily of women’s basketball gear branded with the name and number of Angel Reese, the WNBA rookie and former LSU star—was intended to provide clothing and footwear for those in need. The donation included dozens of replica jerseys, promotional apparel, and custom sneakers from Reese’s recently released merchandise line. However, administrators at the shelter decided to return the items after determining that they were not appropriate or immediately useful for the shelter’s residents.
Shelter officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, emphasized that while the gesture was appreciated, their primary needs revolve around basic necessities—such as durable clothing for harsh Chicago weather, hygiene products, non-perishable food, and sturdy footwear suitable for walking and inclement conditions. One staff member explained that “the donation was well-intended, but most of our clients are looking for winter coats, boots, or everyday clothes that blend in. Walking the streets in a bright, branded jersey makes them more visible, and that’s not
