Parent starts Healthy Schools fundraiser

During the Homecoming football game on Oct. 16, parent Ken Lee donned a white apron and cut apples into thin slices. His message to those passing by: ”Order apples online, pick them up at school! We even donate a portion of profits to Sports Boosters!”

Lee recently partnered with Venice Produce to start a Healthy Schools fundraising effort. The group sells fruits, ranging from “the most delicious apples in the world” to oranges and persimmons.

Ten percent of the profits are donated to support Sports Boosters. Although the organization donates to the school, it is still aiming to make a profit.

Because all the fruits are sold directly, Lee said prices are cheaper and it is more convenient to pick up than going to a supermarket. After school, he sets up his booth outside the Large Gym to sell and hands out ordered fruit.

Though the company’s produce has been well received among those who have tried it, Lee said that the fundraiser has not gotten the attention it deserves. Currently, they hand out free samples at home football games, where they gain most of their recognition.

“Those apples are amazing,” sophomore Nguyen Do said. “Every time I attend a football game, I make sure to get as many as I can.”

So far, the program has raised $100 for Sports Boosters.

“Healthy schools has only been around for about a month or so,” Lee said. “The program is relatively new, so we’re expecting to grow further throughout the year

He started the program because his own two daughters attend the school and are both active in sports and he wanted to support them through Sports Boosters.

For more info on the program, visit healthyschools-shs.com