Monroe High’s Interact Club raised money for the homeless this past month through a Penny War. The club raised $262.66 for the Homeless Assistance Fund for the Monroe County Opportunity Program. Jars have been in many classrooms collecting change to help pay for hotel rooms, heating, and other necessities that are needed because of the cold weather.

On April 7, the teachers revealed the winner by wearing either gold, to represent the money, or green to represent envy. MHS music teacher Jim Nuechterlein’s classroom won the penny war with $65.44.

Sue Jones, the advisor for Interact Club, said she has been trying to fight homelessness in Monroe County by partaking in the Chill Out back in November and then collecting money in this Penny War.

“The Homeless Assistance Fund goes to help families that become homeless because of emergencies or natural disasters,” said Jones. “I think any amount of money we can give them will help.”

Money from the Penny War can be used for numerous necessities.

“The $65 from (Jim) Nuechterlein’s class will pay for someone to continue having electricity,” said Jones.

Freshman Nadia Lake said it all goes to a good cause so that’s what matters. Lake has been in the Interact Club since the beginning of November.

“We have been contributing to the shelter in Monroe, and it helps them with toiletries and canned foods that they can pass out,” said Lake.

Nuechterlein said that a bulk of the money that was in his jar came from a few students who cleaned out his penny jars.

“My wife and I are involved in community service,” Neuchterlein said. “We do house restoration on the East side. They provide meals for homeless. She and I sometimes work with the first Presbyterian church and their homeless dinners.”