A heartfelt act of generosity and remembrance will take center court later this month as Preston Schools host the First McKinley McGirt Memorial Teddy Bear Toss, an event designed to honor the memory of McKinley McGirt while bringing comfort to children battling serious illnesses.

The memorial teddy bear toss will take place Jan. 30, during the Morris Eagles vs. Preston Pirates basketball games. Fans attending the matchup are encouraged to bring new stuffed animals, which will be tossed onto the court in a powerful show of unity and compassion between the girls’ and boys’ games.

All stuffed animals collected during the event will be donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Tulsa and The Chil- dren’s Hospital at Saint Francis, ensuring that McKinley’s memory lives on through acts of kindness that directly impact children and families facing medical hardships.

— School-wide Fill-A-Bag Challenge underway

In the weeks leading up to the game, Preston Elementary and Middle School students are participating in a “Fill-A-Bag Challenge”, encouraging classrooms and buildings to collect as many teddy bears as possible. The collection period runs Jan. 12-28, and a fun incentive is on the line.

The building that collects the most stuffed animals will earn a sweet reward – popsicles for the entire building – adding excitement and friendly competition while reinforcing the importance of giving back.

High school students are also invited to participate by bringing stuffed animals directly to the game. Cheerleaders will assist with the toss during the event.

To ensure the safety and comfort of pediatric patients, organizers ask that all donated stuffed animals meet the following requirements: • Brand new with tags

• Unwrapped

• No bean-filled toys

• Unscented These guidelines help hospitals distribute the donations efficiently and safely to young patients.

— Cancer Awareness Night

The evening will also serve as Cancer Awareness Night, with fans encouraged to wear an awareness ribbon in support of those affected by cancer. The combination of awareness, remembrance of McKinley and action is expected to make the night especially meaningful for players, students and spectators alike.

By filling gym floors with teddy bears, Preston and Morris supporters will help deliver moments of comfort to children when they need it most, proving that even the smallest gestures can make a lasting impact.

Community members are encouraged to attend the game, bring a stuffed animal and be part of an evening that blends school spirit with compassion in memory of McKinley McGirt.