Coats That Vote in Warren
Warren Township Schools 4th and 5th grade Student Leaders planned and organized their first fundraiser of the year, Coats that Vote! Working with One Warm Coat and Jersey Cares, Student Leaders decided to collect coats this giving season to donate to local charities. Their creative idea for the fundraiser came from the recent election, “We wanted to have students vote for something fun all kids can enjoy at school together,” commented 5th-grade Student Leader Naya. During one of their club’s meetings, with their advisor, Student Leaders brainstormed practical things the whole student body could vote on. Their final top 3 ideas were Pajama Day, a Dance Party, and Bring Your Stuffed Animal to School Day!
During the week of November 18-22, students donated lightly worn adult and kids jackets, placing them in the bin that won their vote. Over the week, Student Leaders also visited PreK-3rd grade classrooms to talk about the benefits of giving and generosity. They read a book to the students and asked them questions about how they could participate in giving this season. Each day of the fundraiser Student Leaders also counted the votes, providing totals to students on the announcements and parents via the Central School PTO’s socials.
Participation and donations came in throughout the week and it was clear it was going to be a close race. Before the final day of donations, Pajama Day and Bring Your Stuffed Animal to School Day were neck and neck. Ultimately, Pajama Day won by 5 coats, and the school celebrated with Pajama Day on Wednesday, November 27th before Thanksgiving Break! Over 148 coats were donated to those in need this Thanksgiving season.