In a show of local solidarity, the Carl’s Jr. locations in Bend and Redmond have opened their doors for an all‑day fundraiser benefiting the Silver Rail Elementary Recovery Fund. Every dollar earned from sales today will be contributed directly to the fund, which was created to support the school community after the heartbreaking shooting that occurred last month.
Community response to a tragedy
The shooting at Silver Rail Elementary left families, teachers, and neighbors reeling. Since the incident, community groups, churches, and local businesses have rallied to provide emotional and financial assistance. The Carl’s Jr. fundraiser adds another layer of support, allowing residents to help simply by dining at the restaurant.
How the fundraiser works
All menu items – from classic burgers to breakfast biscuits – are included in the donation. Staff members have been briefed on the purpose of the event, and signage throughout both restaurants reminds patrons that their purchases are going straight to the recovery fund. The restaurants expect a strong turnout, given the close ties many residents have to the school and the surrounding neighborhoods.
What the recovery fund will do
Money raised will be allocated to several priority areas identified by the school board and parent‑teacher association. These include:
- Therapeutic services for students and staff affected by the trauma
- Enhanced security measures and safety equipment for the campus
- Resources for grief counseling and community‑building activities
- Support for classroom supplies and extracurricular programs that were disrupted
By directing funds to these needs, the community hopes to restore a sense of normalcy and safety for the children who attend Silver Rail Elementary.
Local leaders voice support
Mayor Tom Baker of Bend praised the effort, saying, “When tragedy strikes, our town shows its true character – we come together, we care for one another, and we act quickly to help those in need.” City Councilmember Laura Miller added that the fundraiser exemplifies the partnership between private businesses and public institutions that strengthens Central Oregon.
Representatives from the school district echoed the sentiment, noting that the influx of private donations complements state and federal assistance already in place. They emphasized that every contribution, no matter the size, moves the recovery process forward.
How to get involved
Residents who cannot visit the restaurants today can still support the fund by making direct online donations through the Silver Rail Elementary website. The school’s administration has also organized a series of volunteer opportunities, ranging from counseling peer groups to organizing community events aimed at rebuilding trust and resilience.
For those who prefer to dine out, the Carl’s Jr. locations will remain open for regular service after the fundraiser concludes, continuing to serve the community with the same menu that locals have come to love.
Looking ahead
The fundraiser is part of a broader effort to ensure that Silver Rail Elementary emerges stronger from this painful chapter. Community leaders hope that the combined support of businesses, faith groups, and families will not only address immediate needs but also lay the groundwork for a safer, more caring school environment in the years to come.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
