Student Council and students at Blanco Elementary participated in the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Pennies for Patients Program, which raises funds to find cures for leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma through research, and for patient services. Pennies for Patients is one of the Society's National School and Youth Programs. It has a double benefit because it allows students to develop compassion and learn the value of helping others as they work for a good cause.

For a fourth year, pop recording artist Mandy Moore will serve as the program's National Honorary Chairperson. "At the end of the last school year, I made a commitment to continue to work for this important cause," Ms. Moore said. "I participated in the School and Youth Programs when I was in school and continue to be very passionate about supporting the important work of the Society." To reinforce her commitment, Moore has agreed to visit the top fundraising school in the country to congratulate and recognize students for the fundraising activities.

The Blanco Elementary School Pennies for Patients Program ran for a three week period from February 4-24, 2008. Mr. McClure's class collected the most pennies and other spare change. His class won a party to celebrate their success. Blanco Elementary collected over $1,600 for the Leukemia and

Lymphoma Society.

School administrators appreciates the value of having students work with a goal of helping others. "Our students involvement with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society reminds them of the importance of being involved with the community and helping those in need," said Ms. Luna, Counselor at Blanco Elementary.

Since 1993, millions of dollars have been raised in pennies and other spare change by more than 18 million elementary, middle and high school students nationwide for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. During the 2006-2007 school year, over one million students across the country raised more than $18 million for the Pennies for Patients. In Central and West Texas alone, students raised more than $175,000!

For more information on the Pennies for Patients program, contact Blanco Elementary at 830-833-4338.

For information on the programs and services available at the Central Texas Chapter of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, call (512) 491-6610 or toll

free at (866) 814 8113.