The annual “Penny Wars” fundraiser — a month-long fundraising competition organized by JHS Student Organization — will benefit Johnny LaMancuso and Landon Tota, who both attend Jamestown Public Schools and whose parents are graduates of Jamestown High School.

Johnny was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare form of cancer, earlier this fall. He has been undergoing chemotherapy treatment at Oishei Children’s Hospital.

Landon suffered a traumatic brain injury from a fall on July 4, which resulted in a stay at Oishei Children’s Hospital. He has since been transported for long-term care at a children’s hospital in Pittsburgh.

“Our student officers felt that both Landon and Johnny would be worthy recipients of the Penny Wars donation this year,” said Tony Dolce, the student organization advisor, who has been involved in the fundraiser since its inception. “The funds raised would help them and their families offset costs through this difficult time.”

Johnny LaMancuso

For 25 years, students have spent the holiday season raising money for a worthy cause within the JHS family, Dolce said. Students spend the month of December leading up to the last day before the holiday break raising money for the cause. All pennies count as “positive” points and all silver and dollar bills count as “negative” points. Following the annual all-school assembly concert by the A Cappella Choir on the last day of school, the winning class is announced.

The highlight of the event? Losing class advisors and presidents are either “slimed” or receive a “pie to the face.” Additional incentives for students to raise money have included principals, superintendents, and other staff members being “slimed” or receiving a “pie to the face” if certain fundraising levels are achieved.

But most of all, the school has spent the holiday season focusing on what’s most important: giving back to the community.

“Penny Wars has become a great tradition over the years,” Dolce added. “JHS has raised nearly $100,000 for worthy causes within the JHS family. The students and staff look forward to this very meaningful event which gives back to one of their own, especially during the holiday season.”

Donations must be received by the end of the school day on Thursday, Dec. 21 to be counted toward the competition. Those interested in donating to a certain class’s Penny Wars campaign can contact any JHS class council member or contact the school at (716) 483-3470.