More than one hundred third graders from Ma'ema'e Elementary school went on a special field trip Friday. They went toy shopping, playing Santa to other children in need.
It was a sea of yellow as students filled KB Toys at Kahala Mall.
"I got two hot wheel cars a polly pocket and two girls with a car," says Nicole Yarbrough, third grader.
For the past month students performed chores around the house. Exactly how much money they earned depended on their negotiating skills.
'Washing the dishes and cleaning my room for one dollar and making all three beds for my Mom," says Yarbrough.
"I helped my dad cut down a tree a papaya tree and I got 8 bucks for that," says Kapono Campos, third grader.
Today parents compared notes and found that some of the children drove a hard bargain.
"I found out our kid is charging us double what others kids are charging," says Pua Aarona, parent.
"He charged us 50 cents per trash can where the other kids charged a dollar for the whole house," says Aarona.
This is the fourth year ma'ema'e has helped Lokahi. Not only do they learn about the spirit of giving at Christmas they also improve their education.
"In addition to the community factor they learn some economics they learn some mathematics so it's an integrated service learning project," says Leslie Issacs, teacher.
"My daughter here she avoids responsibility but when she found out it goes for a good cause and helping other kids everyday she's like mommy can I do another chore?," says Marlene Ko, parent.
If you would like to donate to the Lokahi Giving Project you can drop off your unwrapped gift or cash donation at any Central Pacific Bank or Starbucks location statewide.
Vanessa may be reached at
vstewart @khon2.com or ph. 591-4209.
