Legendary host Alex Trebek quietly donated $500,000 to a local homeless shelter before his death

Alex Trebek entertained his audience for decades before losing his life to cancer at the age of 80. While he will always be remembered for being the quick-witted host of the game show, Jeopardy, he will also be cherished for his generosity. According to ABC News, the deceased host and his family donated $500,000 to Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission for the building of their new homeless bridge housing center in Northridge.

The housing center will be named in memory of the late television host and will be called "The Trebek Center." Trebek's widow, Jean Trebek spoke of the project and how it would be a beacon of hope to many. "Hope of the Valley is helping to change the landscape of homelessness here in the San Fernando Valley for the better," said Jean. She added, "I know how proud Alex was of their mission. He was so deeply grateful to be a part of the solution."

The Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission will be reconstructing the old 23,000 square-foot roller skating rink known as Skateland in Northridge into a site to house the homeless in the community. Speaking of their decision to name the housing after Trebek, the organization stated that Trebek's contribution was one of the first donations that paved the way for more funding. They also said that the project would have 107 beds. "I know the center will be a purposeful and meaningful bridge and a safe haven for so many," said Rowan Vansleve from the organization, according to ABC News.

Recalling the moment Trebek contacted the Mission, the CEO Ken Craft claimed he was shocked. "And I answered it and a voice said 'Ken this is Alex Trebek. I hear you're are building a shelter in North Hollywood I'd like to come see it. I said when would you like to see it. He said tomorrow at 9:30. I said okay," said Craft.

He added, "In the back of my mind I'm thinking is this THE Alex Trebek or is this Alex Trebek from Wichita, Kansas? I wasn't quite sure honestly." Meanwhile, the host and his family have helped the Mission in the past too. According to Sfvbj, Trebek contributed $100,000 to the Mission in March 2020. At the time, the money was used for the construction of the 85-bed shelter in North Hollywood, which would be integrated on 9 July 2020.

Appreciating Trebek's big heart, Craft stated, "He’s one of the kindest, most sincere, generous, thoughtful people I’ve ever met – and selfless."