The penny war is a class race that takes place in December to see which foreign language class can raise more money than others. It is also a way that York Suburban foreign language students help families in need during the holidays. But what happens with all that money?
Spanish teacher and Spanish Honor Society Director Heather Kinneman said that the money goes to buying gifts for parents to give to their children for the holidays. She said, “The families are selected through the guidance departments at the high school and elementary schools.” This way there is an equal opportunity for a family to be selected.
“They choose a family that they feel could use some financial assistance,” stated Kinneman.
York Suburban students are known for being very giving for multiple causes; take THON, the Color Clash, and Red Ribbon Week as perfect examples. Students realize they are lucky for what they have and are not hesitant to donate just a little bit of extra change.
The little coins that make their way into the war jars make a big difference. Every year, the students raise enough money to get a family in need through the stressful gift buying process and to make childrens’ holidays a little more brighter.
This year, Kinneman hopes to raise sufficient funds to aid a new family in a joyous holiday. Hopefully, Suburban can pull through.
“The most fun is seeing the parents’ expressions when we drop off the gifts… they are usually so grateful for the help,” stated Kinneman.
In December, when the penny war starts, don’t forget to scrounge between the couch cushions, dig under the bed, and let the piggy bank shed a couple pounds in support of a family in need of a joyous holiday.
Jar of coins. http://mrg.bz/LC3PKB