San Diego State senior cornerback Xavier Hamlett was eager for the spring semester to begin last week.

Hamlett is just months away from earning a sociology degree and, with his Aztecs teammates, in the midst of strength and conditioning for the 2025 season.

Returning to campus also meant an opportunity for Hamlett to reconnect with other SDSU athletes interested in helping him with a project near and dear to his heart.

“What drives me to make a difference is seeing so many people struggle,” Hamlett said. “It truly breaks my heart. Helping others has always come naturally to me. Every time I’ve given to the homeless, I’ve seen how much even small gestures, like a meal or a genuine conversation, can mean.

“Many share how they feel invisible or looked down on, and a simple act of kindness can make all the difference. After reflecting and talking with God, I realized football is my gift, but my true purpose is to help others and make a positive impact on the world.”

Hamlett and SDSU linebacker Brady Anderson partnered over the weekend with the Lucky Duck Foundation, distributing sleeping bag coats (coats that transform into sleeping bags).

“We drove around the city, looking for people sleeping on the streets or without enough clothing, and passed out these coats while also taking time to pray for them,” Hamlett said. “We even went a step further by helping a man in a wheelchair get to Father Joe’s Village, where he was able to receive help, clothing and care.”

Hamlett has a bigger project planned this week — providing meals downtown for those in need. Haircuts will  be provided as well as clothes, hygiene products and Bibles, among other items.

Nearly two dozen SDSU athletes will help him, including several teammates. SDSU athletes in baseball, track, soccer and water polo are expected to volunteer.

“Every time I’m in the athletic facility, players from all sports ask how and when they can get involved,” Hamlett said. “You can see the passion and love in their eyes, and many even suggest their own ideas for helping out. At our core, as humans, I truly believe we are here to support and uplift one another, and it’s inspiring to see that shared commitment among us.”

Hamlett, a Lincoln High School graduate, shared during a conversation last season how he understands more than most about the homeless situation.

“I’ve had my ups and downs,” he said. “I was staying in my car a little bit.”

For the past year, Hamlett has been organizing outreach events for San Diego’s homeless community.

He raised $900 during a GoFundMe campaign last spring and more than $2,000 over the summer to cover costs for food and other supplies distributed to the homeless. The fundraising goal for the current project is $3,200. Those interested in donating can find the GoFundMe page here or by going to gofundme.com and searching for Xavier Hamlett.

Hamlett plans to share updates and content on Instagram (@BoogsHeart) and YouTube (@BoogsHeart).

“Time and time again, we’ve surpassed our goals thanks to the overwhelming love and support from our community,” Hamlett said. “Our ultimate goal is to eventually fund our events through sponsorships and views, but first we need to show the world how serious and dedicated we are to making a difference.”