On Feb. 10, 2014, every homeroom was given a donation box and will be collecting donations until Mar. 12 for Pennies for Patients.

Pennies for Patients is a service learning, character education and philanthropy program that aids thousands of children and adults in the fight with blood cancers. Since 1994, millions of dollars have been raised by pennies and spare change. All over the country, millions of elementary schools, middle schools and high schools participate in the fundraiser. The funds during this are collected during a three week period and it benefits the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

“We have to collect for 15 days and we have had a few snow days during that period,” Mrs. McDonough, coordinator for Pennies for Patients and BAHS teacher, said.

Bel Air High school has been supporting Pennies for Patients for 8 years. Each year, BAHS has raised at least $100.

“So far this year, we have raised a total of $431.67 and we hope to continue raising more. Before, we have donated over $1000. [The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society] takes what they can get, because every cent counts in the fight against childhood cancer,” Mrs. McDonough said.

Some teachers have even made the fundraiser into a fun competition to rally support from students. Mrs. Tackett, a seasoned supporter, has pegged her classes against each other to see who can raise the most. The winner will receive a prize. Other teachers have promised to match whatever the students raise, but in the end it’s just about supporting a good cause.

Any spare change you have can make a difference and change children’s lives. Talk to your homeroom teachers about your donation box for more information.