Shown are four of the Wawasee High School Key Club students with the Walmart gift cards purchased as the result of the penny pitch fundraiser. From left are Katelyn Dunivan, Whitney DeLong, Allison Stookey and Kiah Farrington. Photo provided.

By Tim Ashley
InkFreeNews

SYRACUSE — That loose change laying on the nightstand beside the bed, the kitchen counter or wherever can add up to put a smile on someone’s face during the Christmas season.

Wawasee High School’s Key Club raised $1,550 during the annual penny pitch fundraiser. According to Jennifer McKinney, Key Club advisor, the club collects money from students and teachers for high school students in need. Students in Key Club collect from first period classes and usually hold a competition for the most collected.

“Students and teachers are encouraged to empty their change cups in their cars, check the couch cushions or under their bed for any spare change,” McKinney said.

Key Club and the National Honor Society usually cooks breakfast for the top three classes, but this year due to COVID-19 there was no breakfast.

She noted the students in need are chosen by teachers, administrators and guidance counselors and just prior to the beginning of the Christmas break are issued a Walmart gift card. This year 62 gift cards were purchased. Guidance department staff get to play the role of Santa’s elves and distribute the gifts cards to the students.

Gift cards are used to either purchase Christmas gifts or even groceries for the families involved. “Most of the students are completely shocked and extremely grateful for the gift card,” McKinney said.

COVID has created a greater need for assistance. “We are very grateful that our students and staff stepped up to help give this year,” McKinney said. “It gives several students something to smile about in these troubling times.”