Plains 6th grade classes help spread cheer

The sixth-grade classes of Mrs. Feist and Ms. Jirasko at Plains Elementary School went out of their way to make Christmas special for many children throughout Sanders County this year. Teachers Feist and Jirasko helped organize the Tree of Hearts drive.

The money raised during the Tree of Hearts drive went to purchase gifts for needy children. Plains students would pay one dollar to wear a special hat or hold on to a stuffed animal for the day. The gift drive was in operation for six days over three weeks, with three days each for the hat and stuffed animal drive.

K – 6 grade staff members participated in the event.

Both six grade classes collected and counted the $810 that was donated to purchase gifts. The money collected was spent exclusively in local Plains businesses, including Mountain West, Mangy Moose, Plains Drug and the Bean Bug.

After the gifts were purchased, class members spent Monday afternoon wrapping them for Detective Martin Spring from the Sanders County Sheriff’s Office, to pick up and distribute. The Sheriff’s Relief Fund, established under Sheriff Gene Arnold around 22 years ago, has helped local children and families with Christmas gifts and dinners.

With the support of school programs like the Plains 6th grade classes fund raiser, and public donations, Sanders County Sheriff’s Office will continue to bring Christmas cheer to families for years to come.