West Hempstead students collect Pennies for Patients

Cornwell Avenue Elementary School in the West Hempstead School District raised more than $5,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society through Pennies for Patients. The total amount raised was unveiled at a special assembly on Feb. 26, and students dressed as their favorite superhero to coincide with the Pennies for Patients theme, “Every Hero Needs a Squad.”

Student Council faculty adviser Edna Messina organized the campaign and worked with students and parents to reach their $5,000 goal.

Pennies for Patients is a science-based service-learning program that connects schools with local blood cancer patients, according to the organization’s website. The group also provides tangible life skills to participants and allows students to see the impact they make in the lives of others.

Courtesy West Hempstead School District; compiled by Nakeem Grant