Students collect money to support vital cancer research initiatives

Millions of students across the country soon will share more than their "two cents" as they collect spare change to benefit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's (LLS) School & Youth campaign during Olive Garden's 16th-annual Pasta for Pennies program.  Last year, Olive Garden's Pasta for Pennies collected $5.3 million in local communities, bringing the total amount donated since the program's inception to more than $47 million.

Students in first- through 12th-grade from more than 5,250 schools will participate in Pasta for Pennies by donating their pocket change to fill collection jars in their classrooms during a three-week period in the school year.  Local Olive Garden restaurant teams proudly reward the top fundraising class in each participating school with a pasta party.  

All of the money students collect through Olive Garden's Pasta for Pennies funds vital research initiatives and supports services for leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma patients and their families.

"Olive Garden's commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others extends well beyond the walls of its restaurants," said LLS President and CEO John Walter.  "LLS is grateful to Olive Garden and the many students, teachers and parents who take part in Pasta for Pennies year after year.  Their hard work and generous donations are helping us to advance our goal of curing blood cancers."

Local Olive Garden restaurants will host kick-off lunches for representatives from schools participating in Pasta for Pennies.  Olive Garden also provides marketing support and materials for 45 participating LLS chapters nationally.

"Our nation's young people can accomplish great things as evidenced by the students who pledge their time and spare change in support of our Pasta for Pennies program each year," said Dave Pickens, Olive Garden president.  "We are proud of their dedication to our program and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and look forward to another successful fundraising year."