An exciting initiative is underway in Chelsea as the Chelsea School District launches a penny drive aimed at involving local children in fundraising efforts for the upcoming Main Street Park. This campaign, running from April 2 to May 2, encourages participants to contribute spare change collected from various nooks and crannies of their homes. Collection bins will be available at all school district buildings and multiple community spots throughout Chelsea. The penny drive forms part of the larger $1 Million Construction Campaign that began last November with significant year-end donations, including a generous anonymous match of $250,000. With funds currently standing at $484,892 toward the park's construction, the collaboration between MSPA and Chelsea State Bank is pivotal in ensuring project momentum.

Organizers have set an ambitious goal of raising $5,000 through the penny drive, emphasizing the importance of every contribution in achieving this target. Chelsea State Bank has not only provided bridge financing but also donated $125,000 to support the initiative. Volunteers dedicated to bringing Main Street Park to life have already secured $8.3 million in funding and remain hopeful about several pending grants. However, an additional $2 million is still required to finalize the project, making the Construction Campaign a crucial step in transforming the vision into reality.

The effort to construct Main Street Park includes contributions from diverse sectors within the community. Key locations accepting coins include Agricole Farm Stop, Ballet Chelsea, both Chelsea State Bank branches, Chelsea Senior Center, Eder & Diver Insurance, The Garden Mill, Heydlauff’s Appliances, Kitty Face, and The Purple Rose Theatre. While officially titled a "penny drive," all types of coins are welcome, reflecting the inclusive spirit driving this community project.

This innovative approach to fundraising underscores the collaborative nature of the Main Street Park project. By engaging younger members of the community, organizers hope to instill a sense of ownership and pride in the development of this new public space. As Phase 2 environmental remediation concludes, construction is set to commence in June, marking another milestone in the journey to create a vibrant recreational area for residents of Chelsea. Community involvement remains essential as stakeholders work together to bring this shared vision to fruition.