13-05-2025
Guns and Hoses game raises $31,000 for Bright Futures Joplin
The eighth annual Guns and Hoses benefit basketball game between the Joplin Police Department and the Joplin Fire Department raised $31,000 for Bright Futures Joplin.
The game is the organization's largest annual fundraiser
Event proceeds go toward Bright Futures' Snack Pack program, which provides weekend food to the Joplin School District's food-insecure students, as well as various student needs such as clothing, shoes, school supplies and more.
'This year's game was extra special because we got to recognize the volunteers who make so much of what we do possible,' Bright Futures Joplin executive director Amanda Stone said in a statement. 'In our 15 years at Bright Futures, we've come to know so many selfless people who have been incredibly generous with their time. We really couldn't do all we do for our students without their help, and we are beyond grateful.'
Proceeds raised will also continue to fund the Cpl. Ben Cooper and Officer Jake Reed Memorial Scholarships, established by Bright Futures Joplin in 2022 in honor of the Joplin police officers killed in the line of duty. The scholarships from the fund will be awarded later this year to two Joplin High School graduates majoring in criminal justice at Missouri Southern State University.
The Bright Futures framework was started in Joplin in 2010, and has since been implemented in more than 70 communities nationwide. More details about the program and its initiatives are available at brightfutures
The game was held May 3 at Kaminsky Gym at Joplin High School. The Joplin Police Department claimed the victory 57-56.
