Area schools helping Katrina survivors

The Post Falls Middle School Parent-Teacher-Student Organization, along with other area schools, has been raising money for the American Red Cross by selling “Mardi Gras” bead necklaces in honor of New Orleans.

PTSO President Kit Carey has been overwhelmed by people’s generosity. “(The fund-raiser) is doing very well; many people are using it as an opportunity to donate,” Carey said. “We have received baggies of change, as well as straight donations of up to $20.”

The necklaces are for sale to students at lunch and after school, and to parents at sporting events.

Ponderosa Elementary sold Popsicles and filled water jugs with change (the total of which was matched by Best Buy) totaling more than $1,900, according to Principal Kathy Baker.

River City Middle School secretary Jody Kienke said the school’s ASB has a donation bucket that students are filling until the end of the month.