Mentone Elementary School Student Council is sponsoring a coin drive to raise money for the Kosciusko County Riley Kids Fund and Riley Hospital for Children.

This year’s goal is to raise $1,000 by filling a large jug with money, primarily pennies and other coins.

“We chose to focus on pennies because we felt like e very student would be able to participate in this,” said Rebecca Hartzler, school treasurer and student council co-advisor.

Half of the money raised will go to the Kosciusko County Riley Kids Fund to help the families of children that receive treatment at Riley Hospital for Children with expenses such as gas, food, and lodging.

The other half of the money will go directly to Riley Hospital for Children. The school will accept donations the week of Feb. 13 – 17. Checks will also be accepted and should be made out to Mentone Elementary School.

“This drive is important for us because we have had some students here benefit from the services Riley offers. We just want to make sure every child who needs medical care receives it,” said Hartzler.

The collection jar will be inside the main office at Mentone Elementary School, located at 301 E. Jackson Street. Anyone in the community interested in making a donation can stop by the office Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The student council will then present a check during WRSW Riley Radio Days in March for the total amount students collected.