Wade Altum Leads Hoops Against Homelessness Campaign For March Madness

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — Hoops Against Homelessness, a nationwide campaign that raises money to support One80place is happening again this year; taking advantage of the Lowcountry's excitement surrounding March Madness to help raise money to help the homeless community.

A representative with the group joined "Good Morning Charleston" Friday to talk about their upcoming events and what they are doing to have a long term positive effect in the community.

Wade Altum, the young founder of Hoops Against Homelessness Charleston began his journey of stewardship in 2020, when he was only six years old.

"One day, me and my mom were going off the interstate and I asked her 'why is there someone asking for money?' and she explained what homelessness was. I wanted to do something to help," said Altum. "We started this fundraiser called Hoops Against Homelessness and it started growing and now it's bigger than I ever thought it could be."

Since the fundraiser's inception in the Charleston area, Altum describes that he has received nothing but support from the community and his friends.

"The community has been great, everyone has been donating and the people that are homeless have helped and are like, 'thank you so much,'" said Altum.

As the month of March continues, Altum and Hoops Against Homelessness Charleston are hosting a variety of events, capitalizing on March Madness with the goal of raising more money than ever to help the community.

On March 23 there will be a 3v3 basketball tournament and shootaround at Cleats (@ The Refinery) at 10 a.m. Participants are invited to build a team and sign up to shoot hoops or just play casually with a beautiful Charleston backdrop.

March 28 there will be a community shootaround at the Daniel Island Recreation Center. This is an annual event where people can come in to shoot their baskets. This year One80Place is going to attend to be able to share more information about their efforts as well.

Finally March 30, Smash City Burgers is hosting an event with nine local chefs. All ticket sales for the event will go directly toward Hoops Against Homelessness