HOUSTON, TX — In a city that already views him as a hero for his performance on the diamond, Houston Astros superstar Jose Altuve has now taken a swing at something even more important—changing lives off the field.
The longtime face of the Astros franchise announced the launch of his new nonprofit, “A Hope Rising Foundation,” a deeply personal initiative designed to support children with disabilities throughout the Houston area. The foundation will provide free healthcare, access to therapy, mobility equipment, meals, and educational resources to hundreds of underserved children and families.
> “This is about more than baseball,” Altuve said at a press conference, joined by his wife, Nina, and several local children who will benefit from the program. “This is about giving these incredible kids the chance to live fully, dream freely, and feel loved every single day.”
The initiative stems from Altuve’s ongoing quiet work in hospitals and clinics across Houston. According to those close to him, the idea for A Hope Rising Foundation came after a private visit to a children’s therapy center last year, where he spent time with a young boy recovering from spinal surgery.
> “He looked me in the eye and said, ‘I want to run like you one day,’” Altuve recalled. “That moment changed everything for me.”
Through an initial $4 million personal donation, Altuve is launching the foundation with an immediate impact—partnering with Texas Children’s Hospital, Easter Seals Greater Houston, and several local schools. Plans are already in motion to build a dedicated therapy center by late 2026, and provide full-ride scholarships for families needing long-term care.
> “Jose has always been a champion on the field. Now he’s a champion for these kids,” said Astros manager Joe Espada. “We’re all incredibly proud.”
Social media exploded with support after the news broke, with #HopeRising, #AltuveCares, and #AngelInHumanForm all trending across the Houston metro area. Even players from rival teams, including Yankees slugger Aaron Judge, praised Altuve’s act of kindness.
> “This is why Jose is beloved—not just in Houston, but around the league,” Judge wrote. “He leads with heart.”
For Altuve, the mission is clear:
> “Baseball gave me a platform. Now I want to use it to make sure every kid—no matter their ability—feels valued, supported, and celebrated.”
As the Astros chase another postseason berth, Jose Altuve’s most meaningful legacy may now come from the lives he lifts—not just the games he wins.