DI youngster promotes Hoops Against Homelessness campaign
Eight-year-old Wade Altum has high hopes when it comes to combating homelessness in the Charleston area. The third grader at Daniel Island School started a “Hoops Against Homelessness Challenge” to support the growing needs of One80Place.
“A couple of years ago, he saw an opportunity to connect with friends and give back during the COVID-19 pandemic through basketball,” Wade’s mom, Kate Altum, explained.
One80Place is a local organization that strives to end homelessness by giving families and individuals safe housing and supportive services.
“We really admire their mission and they do such great work,” Kate said.
Wade hopes to raise money to make a difference.
"When we were looking at places that help with homelessness to donate to, we found One80Place and I liked that they do so much, like food, healthcare, shelter, lawyers, and more,” he said.
The Altums — Wade, Kate, dad Justin, and Nina, 5 — have lived on Daniel Island since 2015. When it comes to the campaign, it’s a family affair.
“My mom has helped me a lot with ideas and planning, and my dad helps when my mom is at work,” Wade said. “Nina helps by telling her friends and she’s really supportive. She’s my best cheerleader.”
When Wade first did this challenge in 2020, friends, family and community members donated more than $1,500. This time around, the family is determined to raise even more money.
“We’re close to $2,000 and hoping to get to $3,000! That would be double what we did last time,” Wade said.
This year’s challenge tipped off on March 18 and runs through April 2. Participants shoot 10 free throws and donate $1 for every basket they make to One80Place via their website by selecting the “Hoops Against Homelessness campaign” drop down. Players are encouraged to “pass the ball” to a friend by tagging them on social media or personally sending them a link to the donation page.
Wade said the part he enjoys most about the fundraiser is “getting to see everyone smile and their happy hearts. And basketball, because I love basketball.”
Ghost Monkey Brewing in Mount Pleasant is hosting an event this Friday, April 1, with a kid-sized goal for people to take shots on. “It should be fun, and maybe even funny,” Kate said.
Although there’s only a couple more days to participate, the lofty goal of eliminating homelessness is always a winning cause.
Follow on Instagram @HoopsAgainstHomelessnessCHS and donate at one80place.org/donate#donate.