Schools across Utah are getting a little help thanks to the School Cents program at Macey’s, Lin’s, Dick’s Market, and Fresh Market grocery stores. The Utah-owned grocery stores recently donated more than $72,071 to 51 elementary, middle, and junior high schools in the areas they serve. Each school will hold a special check presentation during an upcoming assembly before the end of the school year.

The School Cents program has been a tradition at the grocery stores for a number of years. The program focuses on raising funds for schools by donating one percent of all transactions made with a linked Perks or Plus rewards account. Each participating school encourages their student’s families to link the school to their rewards account and shop at the store.

“The School Cents program allows us to build stronger relationships with our community and we’re grateful for the opportunity to get to know our guests and support their schools,” said Darin Peirce, director of operations at Associated Retail Operations, which owns the four grocery store banners.

School Cents funds are used to purchase new technology like tablets and computers, books and other classroom supplies. Each school gets to determine how the funds are used and will best meet the needs of their students.

To learn how you can donate click here.