SPOKANE, Wash. – The HEART program is making a difference for students experiencing homelessness in Spokane by collecting and distributing gift cards.
Sarah Miller with the HEART team explained the importance of these donations, saying, “This year, more so than years in the past, things are tough right now for everybody.”
The gift cards provide essential support for students who might be homeless for various reasons.
“Students might be homeless for a variety of different reasons. Families are having to choose sometimes between food and rent,” Miller said.
For over a decade, HEART has been connecting students with resources and collecting gift cards to aid them.
“Every family’s story is really unique,” said Miller.
The definition of homelessness varies, with some students lacking meals after school or having little to no guardian support.
“Do they have the clothing that they need to show up in school and be fit and ready to learn?” Miller asked.
During the 2024 holiday season, the community donated more than $50,000 in gift cards and money to HEART, marking a record for their program.
“We are just so incredibly grateful to be able to be the, the tunnel, the way to get things from people who can provide to kids in need,” said Miller.
SPS is encouraging the community to donate gift cards by December 8. However, Miller emphasized that donations are valuable year-round.
“Families aren’t homeless just around the holiday season,” she said.
Circumstances can change quickly for students, and the need for support is ongoing.
“If there’s a house fire or, or a tragedy that the family has experienced. Then we use those gift cards at those times throughout the year to be able to support those families,” Miller added.
For more information on how to support HEART, consider visiting their website or contacting the organization directly.
