Local boy sets sights on prize in school fundraiser

Mathew Michael Stanwood wants a camera, and his school’s library wants money. The two could be mutually beneficial.

Venetucci Elementary is holding a library fundraiser through Tuesday to raise money for books, technology and its Accelerated Reader program. Students including Mathew, 7, who has cerebral palsy and recently expressed an interest in photography, are raising money by selling goods.

Mathew’s mom, Jessica Stanwood, said that students who sell 60 items can earn a camera.

“Mathew is a very highly intelligent child who has been unable to express his passion for photography till now,” Stanwood wrote to The Gazette.

The products available to help Venetucci and Mathew reach their goals are from a line called MRZ Red Apple. They include dry mixes; gifts and accessories; magazine vouchers; nuts and snacks; holiday wrap and accessories; Internet-only items; gadgets; kids fun and accessories; gift wrap and accessories; and candy including gourmet cookie dough from Otis Spunkmeyer and Simply Excellent chocolates.

“When any kid shows an interest in anything you want it to happen,” Mathew’s mom wrote. “But especially when a special-needs child shows an interest in something, you want it to happen.”

If you have questions about the fundraiser, call Sarah Anding, of Venetucci’s library, at 391-3363.

DETAILS

What: Venetucci Elementary library fundraiser

When: Through Sept. 8

How: To buy products through Mathew, go to www.ezfundraising.com; Click “Participant”; user ID: ZUR7929, password: 887929; click “Shop.” The site accepts Visa and Mastercard.

Something else: Learn more about Mathew when The Gazette profiles him as a Great Kid during October.