State financial troubles have not escaped the members in the Library Club at Charles Henderson High School.

"The kids know that money for education is tight," said Sharon Rhodes, the CHHS media specialist.

"They wanted to do something to help."

After a bit of research, club members decided to go through a fund-raising company called Funding Factory to find a new Sony digital camera for the library.

Students and faculty will be able to use the camera for the high school website and school or classroom projects.

To achieve their goal, the students are collecting used cell phones and empty laser and inkjet cartridges.

The students can turn the used products in to be recycled and earn points for technology or cash.

"By simply saving empty cartridges and used cell phones and donating them to the CHHS Library Club, you can help us earn technology products while protecting the environment," Rhodes said.

"With over 300 million cartridges thrown away last year alone, it should be easy to meet our first-year goal of a Sony digital camera for our classrooms."

To receive the camera, students must collect and turn in 900 points worth of used phones and cartridges.

The students have already started collecting from staff and students at the high school and now they want to include the community.

Rhodes said she didn't know how many points the Library Club has accumulated, but already the students are filling up boxes with the products.

Still, it will take more time and effort to reach their 900-point goal.

To donate used phones and cartridges, call 566-2447 or drop them off at the CHHS Media Center.