Annual paddle raise for the local nonprofit surpasses 2025 total, reflecting overwhelming community support for affordable health care in Big Sky
EBS STAFF
A recent press release by Moonlight Community Foundation announced that its annual Spring Social raised $105,600 for Big Sky Bandage through a live paddle raise, exceeding last year’s total by nearly $16,000.
Big Sky Bandage is a nonprofit dedicated to making health care more affordable for those who live and work in Big Sky. The organization, founded in 2024, covers up to $500 per person per calendar year in acute medical care costs—including urgent care, emergency services, dental emergencies, physical therapy and orthopedic care—for uninsured individuals or those experiencing financial hardship as a result of needed medical services.
“The generosity of the Moonlight Community Foundation is overwhelming,” Amy Vance, founder of Big Sky Bandage, stated at the event. “Big Sky Bandage has experienced a 100% increase in utilization this winter compared to last season. This incredible support allows Big Sky Bandage to continue to assist the core of our community, those who work and live here, with unforeseen medical expenses. Thank you again to the foundation and the individuals who donated.”
Since its founding, Big Sky Bandage has served members of the Big Sky workforce and community who might otherwise go without care or face significant financial hardship due to a medical bill. The organization partners with local providers including B2 Urgent Care, Big Sky Medical Center, Big Sky Eyes, Lone Peak Dental and Lone Peak Physical Therapy, processing claims within seven to 10 days of receipt.
MCF Executive Director Anna Shipley expressed gratitude to the donors, board members and volunteers who made the evening possible. “Big Sky Bandage was a natural choice for this year’s paddle raise—the organization has seen a sharp increase in the number of people it serves, and the need is real and growing,” Shipley stated in the press release. “Those who make up our local workforce are the backbone of this community, and Big Sky Bandage helps ensure that a medical bill doesn’t become an insurmountable barrier for the people who keep Big Sky running.”
Those interested in learning more about Big Sky Bandage or submitting a claim can visit the nonprofit’s website. Donations to support the organization’s mission can be made online.
