Los Altos elementary school is participating in a Pennies for Patients Coin Drive from January 12 until February 2 to raise money for awareness and research in honor of local patients who are battling blood cancer.
The coin drive kicked off with an assembly and a special speaker that taught the students about the function of red and white blood cells, explaining that someone with cancer has a high white blood cell count. They also learned how they can help and make a difference by raising funds for doctors who find cures for blood cancer.
“This program is an excellent way to teach students about philanthropy and giving back to the community,” Los Altos principal, Genevieve Silebi, stated.
The Pennies for Patient Coin Drive is a part of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The society raises funds for research while also supporting patients with providers and services that are innovative and affordable. Their mission is to cure leukemia and lymphoma while also improving the quality of life for patients and their families.
The school’s goal is to raise $1,500 by February 2. On January 22, the students had already raised $1,100.