Birch Lane Elementary School running a pet food drive

Along with studying for finals and finishing up schoolwork, fifth-graders from Birch Lane Elementary School in Massapequa are also helping hungry pets on Long Island.

“The kids are extremely enthusiastic about helping local pets in need,” said John Coyne, a fifth-grade teacher at Birch Lane Elementary School, who spearheaded the pet food drive along with Long Island Cares. Coyne's class will be collecting pet items from now until June 15.

As an added incentive, Birch Lane students in grades K-6 can collect pet cards each day they donate. Once all four have been collected, you'll win a piggy bank from Bethpage Federal Credit Union and an entry into a special raffle (first prize: a $50 gift card; second prize: 4 Long Island Ducks tickets; third prize: a $25 gift card). Three winners will be selected from each grade level, 21 in total.

You can donate the much-needed pet food and supplies during school hours. There will be a Long Island Cares donation box at the front lobby.