Brighten Your Day

7-Eleven owner raises $16,000 for special needs children

August 16, 2012

An owner of a 7-Eleven convenience store has raised over $16,000 to send special needs children to  a fun and educational summer camp.

Richard Santonocito who owns a 7-Eleven in Westhampton Beach, New York, has been able to raise this large sum of cash by placing a change jar on the checkout counter. The change jar has a flyer taped on the front of it for Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck, the special needs summer camp Santonocito recently joined as a board member.

Santonocito claims he has tried to raise money for various causes in the past, but this one has really taken off. As a board member, he wanted to get the camp recognition as well as raise funds.

"The money that goes into those jars will definitely benefit the children and young adults who attend the camp," Santonocito said. "To some people, it may be a couple of coins in a jar, but it adds up to providing a great summertime experience for the campers."

It's amazing what only a couple coins here and there can add up to from a busy convenience store. Many people don't like carrying change in their pocket, so why not take advantage of it and put it to a good cause.

Now Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck can broaden the horizons of children with special needs by allowing them to achieve equality, dignity, and maximum independence through a safe and quality program of camping, recreation, and education.

Next time you visit a convenience store, take a second to look a the change jar. It could make a difference in someone's life.