Hinsdale Central Investigates Donut Fundraiser

HINSDALE, IL – A donut fundraiser set for Friday at Hinsdale Central High School has prompted concerns.

Patch received a photo of a flyer hanging in the school advertising the fundraiser. It says Krispy Kreme donuts will be available for sale before and after school and during lunch.

The beneficiary was listed as the children of Gaza, referring to the victims of the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

The flyer includes the saying, "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free."

That saying has been the rallying cry for groups that are antisemitic and call for the annihilation of Israel, according to the Anti-Defamation League.

Asked about the fundraiser Friday, Principal Bill Walsh told Patch in a phone interview, "Hatred has no place on our campus, and a full investigation is taking place."

He declined to give the status of the fundraiser.

On Friday afternoon, Hinsdale High School District 86 interim superintendents Linda Yonke and Raymond Lechner said in a statement that administrators removed the flyer as soon as it was brought to their attention.

"(W)e want to thank the community for its patience during this time," they said. "The district remains committed to ensuring that all students and staff feel safe, valued, and supported. We will not be making any further comments on this matter at this time."

School board member Jeff Waters said in a statement about the fundraiser, "In my estimation, we need to act responsibly and decisively and should cancel the event (Friday) or amend the benefactor of funds that are raised. This issue is drawing major outcry and is already driving divisiveness in the community."