Oak Hills Elementary students in Bountiful proudly present a $900 check to Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah Chapter, following their inspiring student-led fundraiser to support disaster relief.
Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
BOUNTIFUL, Utah (May 17, 2025) — Oak Hills Elementary School students have shown remarkable compassion and dedication by raising $900 for the American Red Cross of Utah to support disaster relief efforts. The funds were collected through a school-wide, student-led initiative aimed at helping families affected by disasters, inspired by the devastating wildfires in Southern California.
“We are deeply moved by the generosity and incredible dedication of these young students to help people in need,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah Chapter. “Their compassion, along with the support of their parents, teachers and school staff, highlights how an entire community can come together to make a meaningful impact. These funds will help the Red Cross assist families rebuilding their lives.”
A Lesson in Empathy
Each year, Oak Hills Elementary’s student council selects a service project to lead efforts school-wide. “Our student council members were particularly moved by the stories of families who lost their homes in the wildfires,” said Cynthia Palmer, principal of Oak Hills Elementary School. “Their discussions about relief efforts and how they could contribute resulted in their decision to support the American Red Cross.”
The funds raised by the students will contribute to Red Cross disaster relief programs, offering emergency shelter, meals, medical supplies and emotional support for families impacted by disasters.
A Fun and Impactful Fundraising Effort
The students organized the “Coin Wars” fundraiser as a fun and inclusive way to involve the entire school community. Students competed by grade level to collect coins, with the group raising the most earning a pizza party. The grade with the fewest contributions faced a lighthearted prank from the student council. Event details were shared through a video featuring students to encourage wide participation and engagement.
“The coin wars format made fundraising fun and accessible for every student,” added Principal Palmer. “We are proud of the students’ enthusiasm and their commitment to helping others through this successful effort.”
Continuing Support for Disaster Relief
The American Red Cross welcomes continued support to aid families affected by both large- and small-scale disasters. Donations can be made online at redcross.org, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by texting REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 contribution.
This year alone, the Red Cross of Utah has assisted victims of 47 home fires, aiding 186 people with immediate needs such as financial assistance, emotional support and recovery guidance. Last year, nearly 200 home fires affected close to 800 Utah residents, further emphasizing the critical role of community contributions.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
