Raceway Pumps Money Into Tennessee Schools

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. -- Several area Raceway gas stations are showing their school pride by donating one cent from every gallon pumped from special "Spirit Pumps" to local high schools, according to a WRCBTV.com report. The special pumps are decorated in the team colors of the schools they support.

In its first month of fundraising, Hixson Pike's Raceway raised more than $620 in support of Hixson High's athletic programs, according to a company announcement. Raceway operators Peter Avista and Oscar Brock, along with RaceTrac Petroleum District Manager James Smith, presented the check to Hixson Athletic Director Brian Bray and Principal Christine Couch yesterday.

The Spirit Pumps program was created "as a way for our stores to become more involved in our local communities," said Smith. "We have a large parking lot and a lot of gas pumps, and we want to show the parents, students and teachers that we care about their schools. We're happy to be a part of their fundraising, because their needs are so great."

Other Raceway stores are supporting high schools including Red Bank, Signal Mountain, Howard, Soddy-Daisy and Chattanooga Christian. The program could possibly expand in the future if it is successful, according to Smith.