North Valley students got a special visit from a camel for a good cause

MERCED, Calif. (KFSN) -- Students in the North Valley enjoyed a special treat on Wednesday. A camel visited Cruickshank Middle School in Merced.

The camels name was Ali and she's from Oak Valley in Snelling. The 16-year old camel made a special appearance Wednesday as part of a fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Starting last Tuesday, students could put money in jars representing ten different staff members. And the person with the most money had to kiss the camel.

Seventh grade teacher Stephanie Ferreria won the chance to pucker up by having more than $100 placed in her jar. But she was a little nervous about getting up close and personal with Ali. "Because you don't know if it's going to spit, lick, or kick, but she was nice and docile. She's a sweet, sweet lady. I like her a lot," said Stephanie Ferreria, Cruickshank teacher.

Students could also give an extra donation to take a selfie with the camel.

Administrators are still adding up the total from this fundraiser and a previous one, but they believe the school exceeded its goal of $2,500.