DELMAR, NY (NEWS10) — For 18 years, students at Hamagrael Elementary School have been collecting donations to fight heart disease, as part of the American Heart Association’s “Kids Heart” Challenge. During those years, the school raised more than a quarter of a million dollars.

“It’s something I’m really proud of for our little school to raise a quarter of a million dollars for such a worthy cause and teach kids to help others,” said physical education teacher Chris Berschwinger. at Hamagrael Elementary. “Again, that makes you feel pretty good.”

The program started in 2005 and in its first year raised approximately $10,000. This year, the school has already raised over $21,000 through online campaigns.

Bershwinger said fundraising is not just about raising money, but there is also an educational side to it. “A lot of it is also curricular and about how to help their bodies through the American Heart Association and how to stay healthy,” Berschwinger said. “It’s also about how can I keep my heart healthy?” How can I maintain a healthy life? It touches everything, said Berschwinger.

The program has no intention of stopping anytime soon. Eighteen straight years, a quarter of a million dollars, and Bershwinger concluded by saying the mission remains the same. “I can’t believe the number,” he said. “We will continue.”