El Molino steps in to support Middletown fire victims

The plight of Middletown High School’s athletes after the Valley Fire has struck a nerve with other schools throughout the region, who have rallied with dozens of donations to a GoFundMe account set up by El Molino boosters.

Scores of individuals, clubs and school groups have pledged donations of more than $9,460 as of Tuesday night.

El Molino boosters, who were set to travel to Middletown on Friday night for a football game, decided to turn things around and become supporters for the Lions in their time of need.

“It’s been great,” said El Molino principal Matt Dunkle, who acted as a go-between with Middletown staff to find out what their student-athletes needed.

It is believed the homes of perhaps dozens of Middletown staff and students have burned down in the fire, which is still burning out of control.

“It’s been a wonderful outpouring of support for these kids and the school,” Dunkle said. “At least this will lessen the burden.”

El Molino booster president Ron Wright set up the donation site with a goal of $10,000. He hopes to use the funds to replace Middletown athletic gear and purchase some basics to begin rebuilding.

The booster club also hopes to host a team dinner for both teams Friday at the high school, assuming it is safe to do so. Dunkle said Tuesday plans for the dinner are still pending.

GAME SITE SWITCHED

Fort Bragg’s scheduled game at Clear Lake High School in Lakeport this Friday night has been reversed. Clear Lake will now travel to play at Fort Bragg. All proceeds from the concession stand at Fort Bragg will go to fundraisers for those affected by the fire, and there will be a drop station at the game for donations.

Press Democrat Staff Writer Phil Barber contributed to this report.