After hearing about an international problem in a storybook, a local 3rd grade elementary class is taking action.

After reading a book in class the 3rd graders at Windy Elementary decided to spring into action, and what started out as a simple class fundraiser, has turned into a community wide event.

Based on a true story, "Beatrice's Goat" is about a little African girl who wants more than anything to go to school, but her family can't afford it. Until they get a goat. The family sells the goat's milk until Beatrice is finally able to go to school.

After hearing the story, these 9-year-olds were inspired. They wanted to buy a goat for an African family.

"Because going to school there is very expensive and they don't have the money," said 3rd grader Nicole Shundoff.

After some research they decided to raise money for Heifer International. It's a nonprofit organization that helps impoverished families acquire farm animals, like goats.

"The families can sell the goat milk and make cheese and sell the cheese," said student Kylar Lowry.

But instead of raising money for just one goat, the project really took off. They've now raised enough money to buy seven goats. That's almost $900.00 that has come from these 3rd graders, their school, and the community.

Melody's Reporters Notes:

As of Tuesday, the class has raised $793.53 cents. Each goat costs about $120.00. If you would like to donate, contributions can be dropped off or sent to Windy Hills at 4211 20th Ave. or sent directly to Heifer International.