U-46 schools raise $10,000 for Puerto Rico, Mexico relief efforts
Elgin Area School District U-46 students and staff members have raised more than $10,000 for hurricane and earthquake relief efforts in Puerto Rico and Mexico, officials said.
This comes on the heels of students and employees at 13 schools collecting more than $9,000 and supplies for those affected by hurricanes Harvey and Irma in Texas, Florida and the Caribbean.
"We've seen overwhelming generosity from U-46 students, their families and our staff in responding to the needs of those in Texas and Florida," U-46 CEO Tony Sanders said.
"Now we are seeing the same spirit of giving aimed at those struggling in Mexico and Puerto Rico, where many in our district have family and friends."
Efforts underway include:
• "Penny Wars" at Oakhill Elementary in Streamwood for which families have sent in spare coins.
• Officials at Century Oaks Elementary in Elgin are encouraging students and staff members to bring in new batteries, flashlights and monetary donations through today.
• Students at the Dream Academy this week have been able to wear jeans for a $1 a day donation.
• Employees at the district's Educational Services Building hosted a "Jean Day" last Friday in exchange for a $5 donation.
• Otter Creek Elementary in Elgin is hosting a "Coin Challenge" this week. Students have been donating pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters all week. The two classes raising the most will win an ice cream party.
• Batteries and flashlights are being collected at the district's central office to send to Puerto Rico.
Money raised will be split between The Puerto Rican Agenda, a nonprofit helping those affected by Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, and Chicago con Mexico, an organization supporting rebuilding efforts in Mexico after two earthquakes killed more than 330 people.