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In the wake of the Jan, 12 tornadoes, students at Minor Elementary in Lilburn raised funding for the students and families of Clearview Elementary.

The school created a coin drive called “Change for Clearview” that collected nickels, dimes, quarters and dollar bills. In two days, the students raised $776.40 for the families at Clearview impacted by the storm. Along with the monetary donation, Minor students made cards and signs showing their love and support.

Clearview Counselor Sunday Gates said she was pleasantly surprised to hear Minor wanted to help.

“I was shocked and grateful,” Gates said. “I was surprised that people even knew about LaGrange, Georgia, let alone Clearview Elementary. What they did for us was truly amazing, and I’m happy we can continue to help our families with this with their donation.”

Gates said the school plans on using the money to create gift cards for families who have been affected by the tornadoes.

“When the storm hit, we got together to access the needs of the families of students who lived in Lexington Park, Buck Murphy and Baldwin Park. We helped them find resources, document the damages they received and find hotels for the time being,” Gates said. “In unexpected times like this, sometimes it takes a while to get back on your feet, and we wanted to help in a way we could.”

Gates said Minor Elementary School Counselor Elizabeth Crofton, drove to the school to deliver the check. While she was there, Crofton received a tour of the school and revealed that, while in different locations, the schools were very similar to one another.

In return for their generosity, the students made thank you letters for Minor Elementary.

“Our theme for this year was “Better Together” and I truly feel like this was a true example of what it means to work together in the community to help another in need,” Gates said.