Oregon shelter stumbles upon limited-edition Nike Air Jordans, raises substantial funds in surprise auction

In an unexpected turn of events, an anonymous benefactor anonymously donated a pair of rare sneakers to a homeless shelter in Oregon, unwittingly presenting the shelter with a valuable surprise. Initially mistaken for replicas, the golden sneakers turned out to be authentic Nike Air Jordan 3s, similar to the pair worn by director Spike Lee to the 2019 Academy Awards.

James Free, a volunteer at the Portland Rescue Mission’s Burnside shelter, discovered the shoes in impeccable condition and decided to explore their authenticity. Assuming they could be sold as replicas, Erin Holcomb, the organization’s director of staff ministry, considered the possibility of raising $100 on eBay. However, a local footwear shop identified the sneakers as legitimate and extremely rare

Upon authentication by Nike designer Tinker Hatfield, it was revealed that the sneakers were part of a limited production never intended for public release. The shelter chose to auction the valuable pair, generating over $50,000 in proceeds. The unexpected windfall far surpassed the auction house’s initial estimate of $15,000 to $20,000.

Sotheby’s, the auction house, described the sneakers as a “true collector’s item,” citing their limited production, unique design, Tinker’s signature on the box, and the design proof. The pair was reportedly reserved for Spike Lee and a select few on his team.

The funds raised from the auction will contribute to the shelter’s services, offering assistance such as food, restrooms, housing resources, and more to those in need. Holcomb expressed gratitude for the unexpected gift, emphasizing its role in a broader narrative of generosity within the community.