Spokane residents who lost homes in the August 1 wildfires are seeing a new source of aid from an unexpected place: the Gonzaga men’s basketball program. Hall of Fame coach Mark Few, a Spokane‑area resident of nearly four decades, and several of his players have launched a second phase of the Karen Worthy Memorial Wildfire Grant to help families cover the lingering costs of rebuilding.
Why the effort matters
Few said the fires were “more than a gut punch – it was a soul punch,” describing the devastation he witnessed while away in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. The emotional impact on the community has not faded, and Few worries the initial wave of generosity will wane. “There’s a huge emotional reach out by everybody, and then it starts dissipating,” he explained.
Phase 2: Back on Solid Ground
The new phase, called “Back on Solid Ground,” will provide grant money for permit fees, demolition costs, inspection fees and gas hook‑ups—expenses that can total thousands of dollars per household. Funds will be distributed through the Innovia Foundation and the Spokane Region Long‑Term Recovery Group, with eligibility based on income and need. The assistance is earmarked specifically for families rebuilding their primary residence in Spokane.
Players step up
Sophomore guard Davis Fogle, who grew up in Anacortes, Washington, said the disaster hit close to home. “Seeing families lose everything is super sad. We just wanted to see how we could help,” he said. Senior forward Braden Huff, returning from a knee injury that limited his previous season, echoed the sentiment, noting that the perseverance shown by the basketball team mirrors the community’s resolve.
Community response
Local businesses, grocery stores and restaurants have already begun contributing, and the Gonzaga team hopes their involvement will inspire additional donations. “These are the people that support us,” Few said. “We get them through their winters, and this is our way of giving back.”
Looking ahead
Few emphasized that the grant is only the beginning. “Our motivation is that this will raise more awareness and meet the ongoing need,” he said. “We are definitely in the first half; we have to finish the half strong.” The team’s outreach aims to keep the momentum alive until every affected family has the resources to rebuild safely.
How to help
Donors can contribute directly to the Karen Worthy Memorial Wildfire Grant Phase 2 by visiting the Back on Solid Ground Fund website. The Gonzaga community encourages anyone moved by the story to support the effort, reinforcing the deep ties between the university’s basketball program and the city of Spokane.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
