Third-grade students in room 106 at Newlon Elementary School read the newspaper every day and tried to find hope in each and every article they read. Saddened after reading about Rick, the homeless man who froze to death recently in downtown Denver last week, they made a plan to make a difference in the world and share hope with others.

On Wednesday (Dec. 17) they participated in a five-hour read-a-thon, collecting pledges ahead of time. The class earned $40 and used the money to buy eight blankets. Students hope the blankets will offer warmth and hope in the year ahead.

For more information, contact Jennifer Wilson, third-grade teacher, Newlon Elementary School, 361 Vrain St., 303-934-2441.