MEXICO — Meroby Elementary School students are raising money for the local food pantry by cashing in their respectful-behavior tokens.

Called Tokens for Turkeys, the fundraiser involves students getting 25 cents for each token they receive for being respectful, responsible, safe and kind toward each another and their teachers. The tokens are given by teachers and usually traded for prizes in the school store.

Principal Melanie Chasse said the money for each token will be taken from the Teachers’ Sunshine Fund. Teachers pay into the fund for the privilege of wearing jeans on Fridays.

Last year, students raised more than $300, which was matched by Oxford Federal Credit Union. Students are hoping local businesses will match this year’s total. Businesses may contribute to Tokens for Turkeys by calling the school at 364-3715.

The money will be given to the Greater Rumford Area Ministers and Priests Association food pantry housed in the Mexico Congregational Church at 163 Main St.

“So many families benefit from the food,” Chasse said.

Fifth-grader Egan Roy said he likes to give his tokens to Tokens for Turkeys because it makes people happy.

The token drive begins Monday, Nov. 10, and ends Nov. 30. Sue Byam, director of the food pantry, will speak to students Monday about how their donations will help people.

“This is an opportunity to give back to the community,” Chasse said.