Kids First Coupon Book

Kids First is a program administered by the Hamilton County Schools Fund for Excellence, a non-profit fundraising organization for the public schools in the Chattanooga area.  It creates a unique partnership that involves corporate sponsors, local merchants, students, teachers, parent volunteers, the media, and consumers, whose combined efforts result in a highly successful program that benefits the entire community. Now in its 34th year, the Kids First Coupon Book has raised over 15 million dollars for local public education.

 

The Kids First book features nearly 200 offers for discounts and free items from local restaurants, retailers, attractions, and service providers.  The books are sold through all 43 elementary schools for two weeks near the beginning of the school year.  From the $10 purchase price, $7 is retained by the school, which chooses how it will spend the money raised.  For example, one school may devote the funds towards the purchase of upgraded computers and software, while another may buy new science equipment or use the money for educational field trips.  The remaining 30% of coupon book revenue covers program expenses and funds other projects that benefit the schools.  Because the fundraiser is operated in-house, not by a for-profit company, all proceeds stay in Hamilton County for the benefit of local schools.