More than 400 pairs of donated basketball shoes have been reported missing from the annual HOOPFEST giveaway organized by Northwest Goldberg Cares, a nonprofit that provides sneakers to children in need across the city.
The organization had secured approximately 900 pairs of sneakers earlier in the week for the event, which draws families from across the region for a day of play and community building.
Daniel Washington, the founder and executive director of Northwest Goldberg Cares, told FOX 2 that the theft was discovered shortly after the event concluded and that the missing footwear represents a substantial loss for the program’s participants.
Looking Ahead
Local authorities have been notified, and an investigation is underway to determine how the shoes were taken and whether any suspects have been identified.
Washington said the charity plans to replace the stolen inventory and will continue its outreach efforts, emphasizing the resilience of the community and the importance of the giveaway.
In the wake of the incident, the organization hopes to reinforce its partnerships with local businesses and donors to safeguard future distributions, ensuring that the spirit of HOOPFEST endures despite this setback.