Six Million Pennies Means a Lot of Help for Families

From country concerts to bowl-a-thons, penny pitch donors were more creative than ever this year.

The results are impressive. The 14th annual KIIM-FM Tucson Penny Pitch benefiting Arizona’s Children Association amassed 2,879,605 pennies ($28,796.05), more than doubling its goal of one million pennies. KIIM-FM set up in the Foothills Mall Food Court December 16th -18th, broadcasting each day from 6AM to 7PM, and invited the public to stop by and donate spare pennies. Other coins and paper money were also accepted.

The goal of the 12th annual KTTI Penny Pitch in Yuma was to raise 3.5 million pennies. Jay Walker, KTTI personality and driving force for the Yuma Penny Pitch, summed up the results, “As we all know, you can't say the word "Money", or "Charity" these days without hearing the phrase ‘Well, in today's economy…..’ Well, in today's economy Yuma Arizona gave more than they have in the past 12 years. The grand total in the three day's was $35,675.00.”

The ‘pennies’ raised in these drives will help families in emergency situations. We are overwhelmed and grateful. Donations can still be made at www.arizonaschildren.org.

From the Grand Canyon to the White House

Grandparents in the Tucson KARE Family Center Arts group, "Las Fridas" and their grandchildren recently decorated ten Arizona themed ornaments that will hang on the White House Executive Residence Christmas tree. At the suggestion of Generations United in Washington DC, the White House sent the group 10" orbs to decorate with Arizona Points of Interest, and the group went to work, cutting out photos, painting and decoupaging. To see their work, and the decorated ornaments, visit www.arizonaschildren.org/XMasornaments.htm.

Las Fridas started as a grief and loss group for women burdened by their kinship care giving, and has evolved into a joyful art instruction activity for the women and their families. Las Fridas has exhibited at several Tucson area events. The group is provided with support of The Drawing Studio and volunteer instructor Pat Frederick, a retired veterinarian and metal sculptor.

Make sure to watch Oprah's Primetime Special this Sunday on ABC: The KARE ornaments in the White House are set to be a part of Oprah's special, "Christmas at the White House" airing Dec. 13.