Middle Township Middle School Raises $30,514 for St. Baldrick’s

When schools shut down because of COVID-19 back in mid-March, it paused life as we knew it. Classes went virtual, extracurricular activities were put on hold, and events were canceled.

One of those events, a St. Baldrick’s fundraiser hosted by Middle Township Middle School, was set to happen on March 17. More than 80 people including students, staff, community residents, and members of the Middle Township Police Department were prepared to shave their heads to support the fight against pediatric cancer. Donations were raised through the school’s designated website, the stage in the gymnasium was set up, and the local barbers who donate their time were sheared up and ready. To the disappointment of everyone involved, the event had to be canceled. But it didn’t stop people from participating -- virtually.

From mid-March through November, participants kept the momentum going. Students shaved their heads or donated their locks. Some even documented the cut, which was shared on MTMS’ Facebook page. Donations kept coming in.

“This event is different than most fundraisers because it welcomes everyone to participate, regardless of age,” said Principal Jeff Ortman. “St. Baldrick’s is close to our hearts because we have students who are battling cancer. So even though we had to cancel the physical event, our efforts continued in a virtual capacity. We’re proud of this accomplishment and so very thankful for the tremendous outpouring of support from everyone who participated, donated, and encouraged us not to give up.”

The top fundraiser of the event, current seventh-grader Allison (Allie) Brady, raised just over $2,700. She and a classmate shaved their heads in October, and the school the posted the photos to social media.

“One reason I wanted to be involved in this event was to honor a classmate of mine who passed away last year,” said Allie. “I wanted to help, and honestly, why wouldn’t I participate? It’s a way for me to show my support and help raise awareness for a good cause.”

The fundraiser closed with a grand total of $30,514 collected for cancer research, surpassing the school’s goal of $30,000. This was the fourth time the district’s middle school hosted the event, and despite the challenges, the 2020 campaign was the most successful in total donations raised. Cumulatively, all four events have raised more than $60,000.

Gary Rhile, a teacher at the middle school, introduced the event in 2013 to support students who are fighting cancer and to honor those who have succumbed to the disease. The event memorializes students from the district who lost their lives to cancer as Honored Angels.

Though the district’s fundraiser has ended, you can still support St. Baldrick’s by donating through https://www.stbaldricks.org/.