By Tim SchmidtRecord Managing EditorFor Agape interim director Carleen Williams, the statistics tell the picture.For 100 pennies, 15 pounds of food can be purchased from the St. Louis Area Food Bank. That same $1 also allows the agency to buy either 2 pounds of produce, three boxes of macaroni and cheese, or two cans of soup.Agape and the First Bank branch in Warrenton are partnering to launch the “Pennies From Heaven” campaign. The fund-raiser is designed to help raise money to stock the shelves at Agape’s food pantries in Warrenton and Wright City.Williams said Agape is in desperate need of help from the community.“We are at a very low point right now,” she said. “Our volunteers, donations, funds are at a low point right now.“Right now, it’s a tough time for Agape. Donations don’t come in like they do at the holidays.”Collectively, the two pantries serve over 1,000 low-income families each month. Agape also provides other services and programs for families and individuals needing assistance.Containers will be located at area businesses where individuals can donate their loose change. Donations can also be brought to First Bank, located at 607 N. Highway 47 in Warrenton. Local businesses, churches and individuals are being asked to participate in a challenge to see who can raise the most money during the campaign. For every $50 collected, their name will be entered into a drawing to win either a free iPad or tablet computer.The challenge ends on June 16, with the winner to be announced three days later. As part of the “Pennies From Heaven” campaign, a second challenge is being held to see what classroom in the Warren County R-III School District can raise the most money. The classroom challenge ends May 16. On May 19, the classroom that makes the largest donation will be recognized with either a pizza or ice cream party. A trophy will also be presented.“A dollar really helps us big time,” Williams said. “The small change can really turn into big changes.” First Bank is providing the prizes for both challenges.“As a family-owned bank with deep roots in the Warren County community, we want to do all we can to help the hungry, hurting and homeless in the area,” said Pam Faron, assistant vice president and senior branch manager at First Bank’s Warrenton branch. “We know times are hard for many folks but Agape’s ‘Pennies From Heaven’ campaign allows everyone in Warren County to turn their small change into big changes. We would like to challenge everyone to donate their coins to Agape and help change lives in Warren County. It is the right thing to do.”For more information, contact Williams at 636-456-4645 or visit www.agapgemo.org.'Pennies from Heaven'