SCRIP

‘Scrip’ is simply another word for gift cards or gift certificates used the same as cash for everyday purchases of consumer goods and services.  The Scrip Program purchases these gift cards/certificates at a discount, sells them at face value then considers the difference between face value and the discounted purchase price ‘profit’. 

For example, if a family spends $100 worth of gasoline per week, they first purchase a $100 Speedway gift certificate from the Scrip Program.  The family pays $100 for a $100 gas card. Gasoline fill ups are paid with the gift card (unused balance remains on the card until spent). 

A $4.00 profit was earned by paying for the gasoline with the gift card instead of cash (or credit card). For example, the $100 Speedway gift card carries a discount percentage of 4%. This means the Scrip Program paid $96 to purchase the card. The family paid $100 so, therefore, a $4.00 profit ($100 x 4%=$4.00) was earned on the transaction. The family did not pay any extra money out of their pocket than they would have normally spent on gasoline.       

Families are able to select how this $4.00 profit is spent from one of the following choices:

• 75% St. Mary’s Family Tuition Credit / 25% St. Mary’s Technology Fund
• 100% St. Mary’s Technology Fund
• 75% St. Mary’s Parish / 25% St. Mary’s Technology Fund
• 75% St. Mary’s Religious Education Program / 25% St. Mary’s School Technology Fund

St. Mary’s Scrip Program supports families with tuition credit for Preschool – 8th Grade and/or religious education. Also, the Technology Fund provides technological improvements/enhancements for the educational and administrative needs of the school and church. During the 2006/2007 school year, families participating in the Scrip Program earned $42,000 tuition credit and $16,000 for the Technology Fund.  The Technology fund purchased a server for the Computer Lab, upgraded computers, a Yearbook camera with accessories, software, licensing, wiring and technical support for the school.

Scrip News
April 16, 2008

CRANBROOK INST. OF SCIENCE BAT PROGRAM COMING TO ST. MARY’S SCHOOL!
The Technology Fund is inspiring student interest in science by sponsoring a program on bats and their habitat exclusively for St. Mary’s school children (and siblings) on April 24 at 1:00pm and 2:00pm.  A Cranbrook Institute of Science bat specialist/scientist will bring a live bat display to share the stories of bats and display live bats for viewing.  A truly wonderful learning experience within the world of science. 

This program will be split into two sessions because the instructor will be better able to tailor learning to the different grade levels.  (Note: All bats are certified healthy and absent of disease.) 

Buscemi’s Pizza and Party Store in St. Clair is a NEW COMMUNITY SCRIP PROVIDER
Welcome to Buscemi’s Pizza in St. Clair (across from Neiman’s/McDonald’s) on Carney.  They are offering $10 certificates for 5% on everything they sell.  Be sure to thank them for participating in the St. Mary’s Scrip Program!!!

2nd Quarter Results  - End of 3rd Quarter Coming Up
The end of the 3rd Scrip Quarter is April 30.  Here are the results from the 2nd Quarter:

                        Tuition Credit                                    Technology Fund
                                                    $10,282                                           $2,933

137 families recognized the value of Scrip purchases to aid with paying tuition in this tanking economy!
 
Holy Cross and Cardinal Mooney
Congratulations to both Holy Cross and Cardinal Mooney who recently merged their Scrip Programs.  Their program is based upon 50%/50% and they are doing better than ever by joining forces!

New Bath and Body
Bath and Body is opening a new store in the new plaza at 23 Mile and I-94.  This is in the same complex as the new Best Buy, Dicks Sporting Goods, TJ Maxx, Old Navy and JC Penney. 

Changes to Order Form
Dress Barn was removed.  High Maintenance cards are sold out, but you may have services done with Serene – credit will be applied for you.  New:  Buscemi’s in St. Clair

Orvis
Orvis is a high-end clothing retailer that has a few stores locally, but a great website.  Granted, their prices are higher than most, but their clothing is of great quality.  What makes this retailer special, is that they offer a 17% Scrip discount and have a great sale/outlet section on Orvis.com.  Think about it – you will earn $17 per $100 spent plus receive the sale/outlet prices they offer on the website.  Just check it out and keep it in mind!