School recoups funds after nearly $12,000 worth of football equipment was stolen

LENOIR, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Less than a month after someone stole nearly $12,000 worth of football equipment from West Caldwell High School, the community has covered those costs.

The funds were recouped from two separate ventures. The school set up a GoFundMe account, where they raised $6,559. Further, they partnered with several local businesses, where school officials say they received more than $5,000 as of Aug. 8.

“We are incredibly grateful to these community partners,” the school wrote on social media. “We appreciate the outpouring of support for our Warriors. Your generosity and involvement have shown the strength of our community spirit.”

Caldwell County deputies determined the theft took place sometime between the evening of Sunday, July 21, and Monday, July 22, at the Warriors’ field house.

School officials said the thieves took nearly two dozen football helmets, along with footballs and various personal items.

No arrests have been made in the case.

The restaurants involved in the fundraiser were: Shake-n-Dog, Village Inn Pizza, Chick-fil-A Crossroads, Hwy 55 Lenoir and JD’s Smokehouse.

School officials previously said insurance also would help with the loss of the equipment.

West Caldwell hosted a jamboree Friday, Aug. 16, and the first game of the year is Friday, Aug. 23, when they host South Caldwell.

“A HUGE thank you to everyone in our community who has helped!” West Caldwell football coaches said.

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