Salvation Army and Old Navy Partner for Back-to-School Event Supporting Fire-Impacted Families

The Salvation Army and Old Navy partnered to host a back-to-school event in Spokane, Washington, aimed at supporting families affected by recent wildfires. The initiative provided significant discounts and financial aid to help children prepare for the school year. The entire Old Navy store was marked down 50% off, and the Salvation Army distributed $300 gift cards to families in need. The event attracted hundreds of shoppers, with the store filled with parents, children, and neighbors reuniting over new school clothes.

The timing of the event was crucial as Spokane-area students are returning to school this week. For families who lost their homes and belongings in the fires, the opportunity to shop for school supplies without financial strain was essential. Many families relied on the event to afford necessary items, which would otherwise have been unattainable.

Camille Wynecoop, who works at Spokane International Academy, observed the positive impact of the event on her school community. Several families attended specifically to purchase school uniforms for their children. “A lot of our families that are able to utilize that, it helps them because it’s one less thing they have to worry about,” Wynecoop said.

The partnership also involved support from the Innovia Foundation and Wheatland Bank, which helped organize and fund the event. Inside the store, long lines formed as parents and children filled bags with new clothing and made their way to the registers. Jennifer and Tim O’Halloran, who lost their home off Rifle Club Road, attended the event with their children. They described the experience as a much-needed opportunity to shop without the burden of financial constraints.

Beyond the practical benefits, many attendees highlighted the emotional value of reconnecting with their community. The O’Hallorans said they hadn’t seen many of their neighbors since the fires. “I don’t think we’ve seen a lot of our good friend neighbors since the fire and so, to have this, it’s just smiles man. It just like gives us hope,” they said.

Captain David Cain, core officer of Salvation Army Spokane, emphasized the emotional component of the event. “This back to school event, it’s our attempt to just give a glimmer of hope,” Cain said. The Salvation Army’s support extends beyond Saturday’s event, with a resource truck equipped with masks, cold drinks, sifting supplies, and additional assistance continuing to circulate through Spokane neighborhoods.

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