Highland Elementary Students Raise $1,580 in Successful
The Highland Elementary community proved that small change can make a big difference! Through a student-led "Coins for Cats" initiative, students and families raised a remarkable $1,580 to benefit HEART Animal Rescue, a local 501(c)3 nonprofit.
The drive was the brainchild of 5th grader Viviana Salas and her mother, Barbara Smith, both dedicated volunteers at HEART. After learning the rescue was facing financial challenges, Viviana took action, presenting the idea to classes to inspire her peers to help local animals in need.
A School-Wide Celebration The competition was friendly but fierce, with classrooms vying for top honors. To celebrate the overwhelming success of the drive:
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First Place: The top-raising classroom was treated to a sheet pizza and juice party.
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Second Place: The runners-up enjoyed an ice cream social.
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School-Wide: Every student at Highland received popsicles as a token of appreciation for their collective generosity.
Impact Beyond the Coins The funds raised will provide vital operating support for HEART Animal Rescue, ensuring they can continue their mission of animal care and community service. Following the drive, representatives from HEART will visit the school to talk with students about the importance of animal rescue and how their contributions will be used.
"We are so thankful and excited for this result," said Barbara Smith. "Viviana was able to take the donations to HEART this past Monday, and the impact is already being felt."
Lake Shore Central School District is incredibly proud of Viviana’s leadership and the entire Highland Elementary family for their compassion and community spirit.