All those nickels and dimes — and even pennies — at the super market checkout stand have added up to a large contribution for the Hawai'i High School Athletic Association's "SOS" (Save Our Sports) campaign to assist public schools.

Foodland chairman and CEO Jenai Wall presented HHSAA executive director Keith Amemiya with a check for $76,841.91 yesterday at the Market City store, from money raised during a promotion Aug. 17 through Aug. 31 at all Foodland locations statewide.

The contribution will go toward the SOS campaign aimed at helping Hawai'i's public schools cope with state budget cuts that left them operating with less than 64 percent of their allocations for 2009-2010.

Customers donated spare change, dollar bills or larger denominations (including up to $249) at the checkout stands, and Foodland agreed to match the contributions dollar-for-dollar. Later, the super market chain increased its match to two-to-one.

"We had over 8,000 customers participating, and we were excited to see them get behind this project," Wall said. "Both of my children participated in high school athletics, and we see how important sports is in our community. It keeps kids active and out of trouble, and they learn life skills. We were excited we could help."

Foodland's contribution pushes the total amount raised to more than $800,00 since the campaign kicked off July 28.

"We are truly overwhelmed by the generosity of Foodland and its customers, and thank them for responding so quickly to our call for help," Amemiya said. "Their donation will truly make a difference in helping our schools and our community."

(Foodland and Sack N Save customers can continue to contribute to schools and athletic teams through the "Give Aloha" annual community matching gifts program through Sept. 30).

To contribute to the SOS fund, make a check payable to "HHSAA SOS Account" and send it to HHSAA, P.O. Box 62029, Honolulu, HI 96839, or visit www.sportshigh.com or any First Hawaiian Bank branch (checks only).

Contributors at First Hawaiian Bank branches who are willing to be recognized are asked to contact the HHSAA office at 587-4495.

ON-LINE AUCTION SET FOR SOS OCT. 5-9

An online auction benefitting the SOS campaign will take place Oct. 5 to 9.

So far, items that will be up for bid include Neighbor Island Castle Resort hotel stays, fan experiences at the Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic and The Sheraton Hawai'i Bowl, a private performance by 2009 Na Hoku Hanohano Group of the Year Holunape, Murphy's Bar and Grill certificates, and a season's pass to Hawai'i Speed and Quickness Clinics.

To donate auction items, or for more details, call Chris Hart at 275-1047.