Thunder's Isaiah Hartenstein Helps Homeless During Winter Storm

The NBA player donated funds to provide extra staff and meals for the City Rescue Mission in Oklahoma City.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 11:15pm

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Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein, who is currently sidelined with a calf injury, has been making a difference off the court by donating money to the City Rescue Mission to help pay for extra staff and provide more meals for the homeless amid a heavy winter snowstorm in the area.

Why it matters

Hartenstein's generous act during a time of need highlights the positive impact athletes can have on their local communities, especially when they use their platform and resources to support vulnerable populations like the homeless during extreme weather events.

The details

Hartenstein, who joined the Thunder in 2024 and won a championship with the team in his first season, has a history of philanthropic work. Last year, he was recognized by the NBA with the Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award for his work with the Hartenstein Foundation. The 27-year-old German player has collaborated with organizations like the Boys & Girls Club of Oklahoma County and Positive Tomorrows to help underprivileged families and support youth education.

  • On January 28, 2026, Hartenstein donated funds to the City Rescue Mission in Oklahoma City to help provide extra staff and meals during a heavy winter snowstorm.

The players

Isaiah Hartenstein

A 27-year-old center for the Oklahoma City Thunder who is currently sidelined with a calf injury. Hartenstein is an active philanthropist and was recognized by the NBA last year with the Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award for his work with the Hartenstein Foundation.

City Rescue Mission

A civic organization in Oklahoma City that helps the homeless, providing them with shelter, food, and other services.

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What they’re saying

“Winning the award means a lot, and being recognized for something like this is really special. At the end of the day, you don't do it for awards, you really do it to give back to the community and change people's lives.”

— Isaiah Hartenstein (NBA Cares)

What’s next

Hartenstein is expected to return to the court for the Thunder once he has fully recovered from his calf injury, but his off-court impact through charitable work will likely continue to be felt in the Oklahoma City community.

The takeaway

Hartenstein's generous donation to the City Rescue Mission during a winter storm demonstrates the positive influence athletes can have when they use their platform and resources to support those in need within their local communities, inspiring others to follow suit.