Generosity — and some friendly competition — led to H.D. Berkey Elementary students in Arnold collecting spare change to help families in need as the holiday season approaches.

During the month of October, students raised more than $1,000 toward needy families in a “Change War,” an initiative organized by second grade teacher Marcia Chicka.

“With uncertainty surrounding funding and potential benefit delays, the effort felt especially meaningful this year,” said building Principal Brian Heidenreich.

“Thanks to the generosity of our (New Kensington-Arnold School District) community, we were able to raise enough money to provide several local families with grocery gift cards.”

Pennsylvania’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are in jeopardy because of the federal government shutdown.

About 46,000 people in Westmoreland County rely on SNAP, according to the state.

Additionally, data from the state’s Department of Education shows that 41% of students at Berkey are economically disadvantaged.

Classes competed against each other to see who could raise the most money.

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