Million Penny Challenge at The Woodlands Children’s Museum

THE WOODLANDS, TX – Community members are invited to help The Woodlands Children’s Museum reach its goal of collecting 1 million one-cent coins Aug. 1-Nov. 1 during the museum’s Million Penny Challenge.

The fundraiser commemorates the 110th anniversary of the U.S. Lincoln penny, which was introduced on Aug. 2, 1909. The coin displays an image of the late President Abraham Lincoln, the first president depicted on a circulating U.S. coin.

During the museum’s Million Penny Challenge, individuals, families and community groups are encouraged to collect pennies in a sandwich-sized plastic bag or other container and bring it to the museum. The museum also encourages school groups and community organizations to join in the fun and see how many pennies they can collect.

For each donation, guests will be entered to win the grand prize of free Whataburger for a year. The drawing for the grand prize will take place in November at the end of the contest. Each time a visitor brings in a donation, they will receive a coupon for a free item at area restaurants, including a free burger at Whataburger, a child’s cheese pizza at Zazza Pizza Café, or a free milkshake at Grub Burger Bar.

“Not only is our Million Penny Challenge a great opportunity for families to share a teachable moment with their children and talk about counting, sorting, and the importance of saving money, but it also allows us to engage the community,” Executive Director Angela Colton said.

“We’re grateful for the support of so many area businesses and restaurants, as the proceeds will help support programs and exhibits at the museum. This is truly a chance to see a ‘penny saved is a penny earned’,” she said.

To kick off the event, the museum will offer special activities on Thursday, Aug. 1 from 10 a.m.-noon. Representatives from the Greater Houston Coin Club will visit to share information about coin collecting and the history of the Lincoln Penny and will offer free giveaways to children. Benchmark Bank will also be at the museum to hand out free piggy banks and share information on savings accounts.

Pennies can be dropped off at 4775 W. Panther Creek Drive, Suite 280, The Woodlands, Texas 77381 between Aug. 1 and Nov. 1.

The kick-off day activities are included in the museum’s $7 admission for visitors age 1 and older.

The Woodlands Children’s Museum is recommended for ages 7 and under. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. For more details, call 281-465-0955, or visit woodlandschildrensmuseum.org.