At the 2008 convention banquet, Bishop Waggoner announced the gift of $2500 from an anonymous donor to the Social Justice and Outreach Ministries Commission to inaugurate the Poverty in Diocese of Spokane fund. In a November conference call, commission members began identifying possible beneficiaries from throughout the diocese. The intent is that checks from the Episcopal Diocese of Spokane be in the hands of charities early in 2009. Gifts are planned to a variety of organizations throughout the Diocese, with as much local publicity and recognition as feasible. Organizations selected will include those meeting basic needs of shelter, hospitality, food and clothing.