Alex Miles, a recent University of Florida graduate from Evans, turned a simple childhood memory into a heartwarming initiative that is making a big impact in the Augusta community.
Inspired by his own experience of receiving team jerseys as a child instead of toys, Miles wanted to bring the same joy to children and their caregivers facing difficult medical challenges.
His idea was simple but powerful: gift sports jerseys to sick children staying at the Augusta Ronald McDonald House, according to a press release from the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Augusta.
“My love for sports has always been a huge part of who I am, and I knew that receiving a jersey could bring comfort and happiness,” said Miles. “I wanted to give that feeling to others.”
To make this vision a reality, Miles reached out to the Augusta Ronald McDonald House and teamed up with local Retired Sergeants Majors (E9s) to form “Team RMHR9.”
The “RMH” represents Ronald McDonald House, and “R9” honors the retired sergeants major, according to a press release from the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Augusta.
With the support of ten local E9s, Miles raised enough funding to purchase jerseys, cover dry cleaning costs, and coordinate the packaging and delivery.
The initiative was more than just about clothing — it became a symbol of community, hope and connection, according to a press release from the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Augusta.
David Jacobsen, president and CEO of Ronald McDonald House Augusta, praised the effort, noting how it lifted the spirits of families in need.
“The teamwork Alex brought together shows each family staying at the Ronald McDonald House that there’s a community here to support them through their toughest times,” Jacobsen said.
One memorable moment from the initiative occurred when a child at the house chose the same USA National Team Soccer jersey that Miles himself was wearing.
The emotional connection between Miles and the child was a powerful reminder of the impact of such simple gestures.
CSM (retired) Sheldon Moorer, a key partner in the project, emphasized the deeper significance of the jerseys.
“This isn’t just about providing clothing; it’s about offering comfort and building connections,” Moorer said. “During their hardest moments, these families need more than medical care — they need hope. A jersey can help restore a sense of identity, belonging, and confidence.”
Miles’ initiative aligns with the core values of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), which works to remove barriers, strengthen families and promote healing, according to a press release from the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Augusta.
For Miles and others involved in the project, the act of giving a jersey symbolizes much more than sports — it represents community, support and resilience during times of uncertainty.
Thanks to the creativity and teamwork of Miles and “Team RMHR9,” the power of sports and community is offering hope to families at the Ronald McDonald House, one jersey at a time, according to a press release from the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Augusta
For more information on Ronald McDonald House Charities of Augusta, visit www.RMHCAugusta.org.
