
Empowering Our Community
Soleful Steps Foundation: Spokane, WA Impact
Why Spokane Matters
Spokane is home to a vibrant community of approximately 229,527 residents. However, many families face financial challenges, with 14.8% of residents living below the poverty line—higher than state and national averages. This means over 32,000 individuals struggle to meet basic needs.
Additionally, 35% of Washington households fall below the ALICE threshold (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). This includes hard-working families who often face tough choices between essentials like housing, food, and healthcare. Spokane mirrors this trend, highlighting the pressing need for support within the city.
The Role of Soleful Steps
Soleful Steps Foundation envisions a Spokane where every resident—especially military families, underserved communities, and aspiring athletes—has access to quality footwear. For many, the simple gift of a well-fitted pair of shoes can mean:
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Confidence in the classroom for students.
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Mobility and opportunity for families seeking work.
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Empowerment on the field for athletes chasing their dreams.
With Spokane’s high poverty and ALICE rates, the need for support is significant, and our foundation is determined to be part of the solution.
Supporting Kids and Military Families
We are dedicated to providing essential athletic gear and footwear to children in need in Spokane County. Our mission is to ensure that no child misses out on the joy of sports due to financial constraints.

Community Impact
With over 38,000 children in Spokane County living below the poverty line, our services play a crucial role in supporting families and empowering youth. Together, we can make a difference.

Empowering Youth
By offering free athletic gear and footwear, we aim to boost children's confidence, encourage physical activity, and promote a sense of belonging within the community. Every step counts.

Hope
Join us in providing hope and opportunities to underprivileged children. Your support can change lives and inspire a brighter future for the next generation.
Spokane is Home
Child Poverty in Spokane County
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12.6% of children under 18 live below the poverty line, totaling approximately 14,528 children as of 2023.
https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/PEU18WA53063A647NCEN?utm_source=chatgpt.com
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11.4% of children aged 5 to 17 are in poverty, slightly lower than the state average of 11.7% and the national average of 15.7%. https://www.welfareinfo.org/poverty-rate/washington/spokane-county/stat-children-5-to-17-years-old/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Students Eligible for Free or Reduced-Price Meals
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In the Spokane School District, 48.4% of students are eligible for free or reduced-price meals, indicating significant economic challenges among families.
https://www.usnews.com/education/k12/washington/districts/spokane-school-district-103593?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Spokane School District - U.S. News Education - U.S. News & World Report
Students at Spokane School District. The student body at the schools served by Spokane School District is 65.8% white, 3.3% Black, 2.3% Asian or Asian/Pacific Islander, 11.3% Hispanic/Latino, 1.1% www.usnews.com
Veteran Population in Spokane County
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Approximately 9.1% of Spokane County's population are veterans, totaling around 38,905 individuals.
https://censusreporter.org/profiles/05000US53063-spokane-county-wa/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Spokane County, WA - Profile data - Census Reporter
Census data for Spokane County, WA (pop. 551,455), including age, race, sex, income, poverty, marital status, education and more.
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The county serves about 6,000 veterans annually through the Veterans Assistance Fund.
https://www.spokanecounty.org/3951/Veterans-Advisory-Board-VAB?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Veterans' Advisory Board (VAB) | Spokane County, WA
Due to a change in the Board configuration, the terms will be transitioning. Please see the link for more information on the Amendment: Resolution 2023-0050 Member Specifications
Homelessness Among Students
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As of November 2024, student homelessness increased by 28% compared to the previous year in Spokane Public Schools.
https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2024/nov/20/spokane-public-schools-sees-uptick-in-homeless-stu/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
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Spokane Public Schools sees uptick in homeless students as district launches annual gift card drive - The Spokesman-Review
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Spokane Public Schools is dealing with a surge of homeless students that mirrors what is happening on the streets of downtown Spokane. The district this year saw a 28% increase in students without