08/27/2026
Today I had the opportunity to meet with Eastern York School District Business Manager Ken Marx to learn more about where Eastern York High School stands following the tornado and, most importantly, where the money we are raising could actually help.
There have been a lot of questions surrounding this fundraiser, especially about insurance and taxpayer dollars. People have asked, “Shouldn’t insurance cover this?” or “Isn’t this what our school taxes are for?”
The answer is a little more complicated than simply yes or no.
Insurance and taxpayer dollars will absolutely play a major role in repairing and rebuilding the school. However, that does not necessarily mean every dollar of every loss is replaced.
Ken gave me a great example during our conversation. Let’s say the school has a band trailer that would cost $14,000 to replace today. Because of depreciation and the value of the existing trailer, insurance may only provide $10,000 toward replacing it. That leaves a $4,000 difference that still has to come from somewhere.
And that is just one example.
There can be differences between what something was worth before the tornado and what it actually costs to replace it today. There can also be additional needs that come along with getting the school completely back on its feet that aren’t necessarily part of simply repairing a damaged building.
We also discussed the auditorium, which suffered significant tornado and rain damage. When that auditorium is finally restored, there may be opportunities for these donations to help with reopening needs, including things necessary to bring students, staff, families and the community back together for a reopening ceremony or other school needs that arise throughout this process.
That is why this fundraiser was never about trying to replace insurance, replace taxpayer funding or suggest that the school district isn’t taking care of its responsibilities.
It is about filling the gaps.
After meeting with the district today, I feel even better knowing there are legitimate ways this money can help Eastern York High School beyond what insurance and other funding ultimately cover.
Most importantly, we have the support of the school. They know what Riverside Subs is trying to accomplish, and they know that our goal has always been to give back to the community that has supported us.
As the rebuilding process continues, the district will have a much clearer picture of where additional funds can make the greatest difference. That is where we want this money to go.
So if you stand with Eastern York, if this school means something to you, or if you simply want to help our students, teachers and community come back stronger after what happened, please consider donating.
Nobody is obligated to give. But for those who are willing and able, even a small donation becomes part of something much bigger.
Thank you to everyone who has already supported this effort and believed in what we are trying to do.
https://gofund.me/83b894f45
