For more than 10 years, Spokane Public Schools has collected gift cards before Winter Break to support students who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence in our HEART (Homeless Education And Resource Team) program.
As of Nov. 13, 2025, there are 1,172 SPS students who lack stable housing, including 260 unaccompanied youth who are not staying with a legal parent or guardian. These students may be staying in shelters, in a car, or informally with a friend or relative.
Many unaccompanied youth are not eligible to receive support from some charitable programs because of their age or because the resources cannot be accessed without a custodial adult.
With gift cards, HEART students can purchase a variety of items of their choice, and HEART staff can match students with gift cards relevant to their needs and interests to provide students with extra support and care over Winter Break.
This year, HEART staff have received frequent requests for grocery and box store gift cards so students can access food, clothing, or gifts for loved ones.
Gift cards in any amount make a difference in a student's life. If you’re able, here’s how you can help:
Drop off or mail gift cards to the SPS Administration building (200 N. Bernard St., Spokane WA, 99201, c/o Communications Dept).
Bring a gift card to your neighborhood school office (Find a School)
Donate online to the HEART Trust (“select HEART Program Donations”).
Share this information about the HEART Gift Card Drive with your community. If you would like to learn more about how you can get involved, please send a message through Let’s Talk.
Donations received by Dec. 8 will be distributed to students before Winter Break begins. Donations received after Dec. 8 will be distributed throughout the school year to provide continual support of students. Thank you for showing students that Spokane cares.