McKenzie Bridge Parent Launches Fundraiser for Basketball Uniforms

MCKENZIE BRIDGE: With the start of basketball season, McKenzie High School is facing a familiar challenge: outfitting its student athletes with proper uniforms.

Emily Ann Vailes, a parent in McKenzie Bridge, has begun raising funds to purchase new uniforms for the boys’ basketball team. Last year, the middle school boys’ B team played in practice jerseys due to a shortage of uniforms. Vailes hopes to raise about $1,800 this year, enough to cover uniforms for at least 20 players at an estimated $65 each.

“Our school is extremely small, in a very rural and economically challenged community,” Vailes explained. “We want these kids to feel proud of their team and what they’ve accomplished.”

The McKenzie School District, which serves about 200 students in grades K–12, is still grappling with the economic aftershocks of the 2020 Holiday Farm Fire. That wildfire destroyed more than 500 homes in the valley, and fewer than half have been rebuilt. Many families remain under financial strain, making traditional fundraising efforts difficult.

Common fundraising options such as bake sales, car washes, or catalog sales are less viable in the McKenzie Valley. To kickstart the effort, Vailes designed and printed custom stickers, which she is selling for $3 each, including mailing. The stickers have sold well, but additional funds will be needed to reach the goal.

“I wouldn’t say it’s desperate,” Vailes said. “But I think everyone having the same uniform boosts team pride. These boys have worked hard-two winning basketball seasons and undefeated in football for the past two years. They deserve to feel supported.”

Vailes is seeking creative, low-commitment fundraising ideas that work for small communities and is inviting support from beyond the valley. Stickers are available through her Facebook page or via emily.vailes918@gmail.

“I’m happy to accept any additional contributions if folks don’t necessarily want stickers,” she says. Donations could go to the school, Vailes said. indicating that they would like to contribute funds to the McKenzie Middle School Boys Basketball Team.