AUBURN — To support afterschool programs across the country, JCPenney launched a nationwide philanthropic campaign that invites customers to turn small change into “pennies from heaven” by rounding up their purchases and donating the difference to local organizations, including the Auburn-Lewiston YMCA. Donations made through pennies from heaven will provide children in need with access to life-enriching afterschool programs at the Auburn-Lewiston YMCA.

“With budget cuts in education, there’s never been a more important time to support afterschool programs as a valuable community resource that helps to bridge the education gap,” said Kristin Melville, development director. “As local families prepare for the back-to-school season, we hope they will keep our mission in mind so that the social and academic learning opportunities we provide after school will continue to be available to Auburn-Lewiston students.”

The Auburn-Lewiston YMCA serves more than 90 students each year by providing children and teens with a safe and nurturing environment around caring adult role models.

The first pennies from heaven event will kick off July 31 through Aug. 27.