The tradition of Godwin students participating in the canned food drive is continuing this holiday season.

Lasting until Dec. 1, Beta Club sponsored the annual drive that for the Christmas Mother.

New Beta Club sponsor, Mary Mordica, helped run the canned food drive this year.

“I think that anytime you give something, you get something in return and it’s such a good feeling to know that you helped someone else and helped yourself at the same time,” said Mordica.

Last year, the canned food drive collected 2,070 cans as well as 50 books, 134 hats, 183 pairs of gloves, and $1,845 in donations.

Assistant Principal Mindy Guyer wanted the entire student body to participate in the annual fundraiser.

“I have had students who bring in hundreds of cans, which is over the top, but so appreciated.  If everyone brought 1 to 5 cans, we would be able to help so many families in need,” said Guyer.

This year, Beta Club saw a surge in participation.

The Godwin student body collected 5,064 cans during this year’s can collection; increasing last year’s can count by 1,500.

“I was very happy about the turnout,” said Beta Club sponsor Mary Mordica. “We far exceeded our goal to collect more cans than last year.”

Godwin teacher Daniel Wallace’s class came in first place, bringing in a staggering 713 cans or 26 cans per student.

Wallace recruited the help of his student, and Beta club representative, Jenny Ding.

“I gave weekly pep talks to my class and also brought in cookies when we reached 500 cans,” said Ding.

“We were proud of our outcome and we are happy to be helping those in need.”

Wallace was joined on the leaderboard by Womble with 503 cans, Mordica with 396 cans, Morris with 189 cans, and Hamilton with 162 cans.

“I think it’s important to help other people in need,” said Godwin teacher Hamilton.

“I love the canned food drive. It is a great way for our community to take care of those who need a little extra help during the holiday season,” said Guyer.