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TOOELE — KSL presented a giant-sized check for $138,000 last fall to school foundation leaders in Utah. Every penny came from donations to KSL's Quarters for Christmas program.
What happens to that money? And who actually benefits?
"This program really helps get needs met for families," said Cassidy Bell, school counselor at Mountain View Elementary.
That giant check shows up as boots and coats on thousands of low-income students all over the state. Here's how:
School district foundations divide up the check based on student population. For example, Tooele District received $3,200. With that money, it purchased 64 Wal-Mart gift cards for $50.
"Tooele Education Foundation is happy to partner with KSL Quarters for Christmas to make sure that students will be warm this winter," said TEF's Lori Cartwright.
Teachers are then told to recommend which students at their schools could use some help.
"They come to school with shoes that have holes in them or that are falling apart," said third-grade teacher Tyson Price. "It's great to have the resources and these programs so we can provide students with these basic resources."
The gift cards go to parents. In some households with no cars, school employees actually transport the family to the store. There, families pick out boots, coats or other winter clothes.
KSL-TV
"I like my new jacket," said one young shopper in Salt Lake City.
In other areas, schools partner with law enforcement and police officers escort families in the store. Sheriff Jim Winder described this partnership as a win-win as community members and police officers enjoy positive interaction.
In the end, Quarters for Christmas helps children in their education because teachers say kids can stop worrying about staying warm and focus on school work.
"If their basic needs are taken care of, they are better learners," said resource teacher Paula Bickerton. "That's pretty much what it comes down to so you can focus on learning."
