Photo by Julia Eisen

Senior Grace Burgett places some canned goods into the senior bin. She is part of the Leadership class that collects the donations at the very end of the fundraiser.

Every year WJ organizes the Manna Food Drive, an event where students donate canned food or dried goods. These donations will be given to those who are in need of them in the community with the “Kids Helping Kids” effort that Manna organizes. Their goal is to engage students across Montgomery County in the power of giving.

Last year’s efforts totaled 156 pounds of products across all grades. WJ’s new goal is to surpass 300 pounds worth of cans and other goods.

These prepackaged foods can vary from canned beans or tomato sauce to dried goods such as pasta.

Along with other Leadership students, senior Sonia Tavik is in charge of organizing the effort.

“Donating can help us all put our lives into perspective of how lucky we are to have the opportunity to be able to afford everyday groceries,” Tavik said.

Many students are active in giving back to their community and are eager to donate.

“Not only does [donating] help build responsibility and compassion but it also benefits people in your environment. Finding different ways to help your community is great, so do it as much as you can,” senior Cami Robles said.

The bins to donate the cans are located outside of the main office, separated by grade. The competition between grades heats up as each bin gains more cans each day.

Students have been donating throughout the month of October;the last day to donate will be October 31.