BREAKING:” Carter Starocci Commits $4 Million to Support Pennsylvania Community: Providing Free Food and Healthcare Services for Individuals with Disabilities and Illnesses”…See More
BREAKING: Carter Starocci Commits $4 Million to Support Pennsylvania Community — Providing Free Food and Healthcare Services for Individuals with Disabilities and Illnesses
State College, PA — In a powerful act of compassion and community leadership, Carter Starocci, Penn State wrestling star and four-time NCAA champion, has committed $4 million of his personal earnings to launch a statewide initiative aimed at supporting individuals with disabilities and chronic illnesses throughout Pennsylvania.
Announced Tuesday morning, Starocci’s donation will fund the creation of the “Starocci Strong Foundation,” which will provide free meals, access to basic healthcare services, mobile clinics, and mental health support for underserved and medically vulnerable Pennsylvanians. The initiative focuses on both urban and rural communities, many of which have limited access to vital resources.
“This is something that’s been in my heart for a long time,” Starocci said at a press event held at Penn State’s Bryce Jordan Center. “Wrestling gave me a platform. Now I’m using it to fight for people who need a voice—and need help. This is about more than sport. It’s about life.”
The first phase of the initiative will launch this summer in Central Pennsylvania with a network of food distribution points and pop-up health clinics. By early next year, the foundation hopes to expand statewide, with the help of volunteers, healthcare professionals, and local nonprofits.
University president Neeli Bendapudi praised Starocci’s selfless gesture. “Carter embodies the best of Penn State—a fierce competitor on the mat, and a deeply caring leader in the community. This gift will change lives.”
Starocci, whose wrestling legacy has already earned him national acclaim, has now taken a bold step into philanthropy at just 24 years old. His act has sparked an outpouring of gratitude across social media, with fans and fellow athletes using the hashtag #StarocciStrong to show support.
Former Olympic wrestler and ESPN analyst Jordan Burroughs tweeted: “This is what true greatness looks like. Carter’s legacy just went far beyond wrestling.”
As the press conference concluded, Starocci left the stage with a message that resonated beyond the arena:
“Champions aren’t just made on mats or in arenas. They’re made by what they do for others when the spotlight fades.”
With this monumental gift, Carter Starocci has ensured his spotlight will shine for generations to come—across every corner of Pennsylvania.