A schedule change has turned into an even bigger opportunity for goodwill as Henryetta Public Schools announced that the Dec. 5 boys basketball game against Preston will now be played at home setting the stage for a united, county-wide effort to help children receiving care at Shriners Children’s Hospital in Shreveport.

In an update, Preston Schools has officially joined Henryetta Schools in partnering with the local chapter of the Americas Guardians Motorcycle Club (AGMC) for this year’s Stuffed Animal Toy Toss, a tradition that helps fill the hands – and hearts – of hospitalized children during the holiday season.

— A Mission That Matters

For the Americas Guardians, the annual Shriners delivery is far more than a road trip – it is a meaningful tribute carried out in memory of loved ones they’ve lost. Their mission has become a powerful expression of compassion, hope, and community spirit.

“Most everyone knows just how meaningful this mission is to our local Americas Guardians,” organizers shared. “The stories from the children and families at Shriners are enough to bring tears to anyone’s eyes. It’s truly a labor of love.”

— How the Toy Toss Works

At halftime of the boys basketball game on Friday, Dec. 5, fans from both the Knights and Pirates are encouraged to toss new, unwrapped stuffed animals onto the court at the Dan Edwards Knight Center.

Cheerleaders from both HHS and PHS will take the court to gather the stuffed animals, helping prepare them for transport when the Americas Guardians begin their journey to Shreveport on Dec. 16.

The stuffed animals will brighten the holidays for children who are spending the season in the hospital – children who, organizers say, are deeply grateful for the kindness and joy these gifts bring.

– Can’t Attend? You Can Still Help Anyone unable to make it to the Dec. 5 game can still participate by dropping off new, unwrapped stuffed animals at any Henryetta main site building or at the HPS Board Office. All early donations must be received by Dec. 4 to be included.

-A County Coming Together Both school districts expressed appreciation for the opportunity to partner for a cause bigger than sports.

“Thank you to the Henryetta chapter of the Americas Guardians for the incredible work you do for the children at Shriners,” the announcement read. “And thank you to Preston Schools for enthusiastically joining this effort to bless these deserving children. We appreciate you!”

With two schools uniting and two communities rallying behind a powerful mission, organizers hope to send the AGMC to Shreveport with a record-setting delivery of stuffed animals – and a message of love that stretches far beyond the court.

The holiday spirit starts here. Knight Nation and Pirate Nation – bring those stuffed animals and be ready to toss!