We are never too young to save the world, or to help the people who live in it. Everyone can make a difference; even the smallest donation or the slightest effort is significant.
Delview Secondary gives students the opportunity to have a positive effect on the lives of many people. The Thanks 4 Giving canned food drive supports both Deltassist and the Surrey Food Bank, reaching people who live in poverty from both communities.
Because it is a food drive, Delview enables anyone living in Delta to help without the inconvenience of leaving their home. Every single can or other non-perishable food item is greatly appreciated, so even someone with a low income who does not have much food to spare can participate.
Since Thanks 4 Giving’s debut in 1992, students have successfully collected over 10,000 cans each year. Last year the record was broken, as canvassers brought back over 14,000 food items. This year Delview set yet another record, with a total of 16,220.
Perhaps the most important statistic, however, was the number of students participating. This time 434 people helped, either by canvassing or working behind the scenes, like the hard-working yet oft-overlooked organizing committee, which was a 14% increase from the previous year. A huge majority participated; 74% of the entire student body!
The reason for such a large percentage is not a secret; besides being a great way to give back to the community, Thanks 4 Giving is a ton of fun. An atmosphere reminiscent of parties and dances surrounds the entire event.
Because the groups of canvassers are chosen by the participants, and thus generally consist of close friends, the door-to-door portion of Thanks 4 Giving becomes less like a chore and more enjoyable.
When canvassers arrive back at the school they are provided with free doughnuts and pop, giving students a sugar high that lasts throughout the rest of the event.
In the hour or so before the total number of cans is tallied, students are free to hang out with friends, take an insane amount of pictures, and, in general, do as they please.
Prizes are offered, and winners chosen through a random draw. Winning is extremely exciting; this year students received tickets to either a BC Lions game or a show at the Omnimax.
By the time the final number is revealed, there is very visible aura of excitement and anticipation surrounding each and every participant. There is not a single person in the building who does not feel absolutely amazing when they see just how many cans they collected.
The best part about Thanks 4 Giving, however, is that the moment it ends people are already looking forward to the next one.
