In November, Alejandro Garcia’s World History and US History classes participated in a canned food drive.
The total number of cans collected by his classes was 1,605, a new record for the food drive.
The cans were taken to the Capital Area food bank where all the schools in the Austin Independent School District (AISD) have a competition to see who collected the most.
Before Thanksgiving, the cans were sorted out and then given to people who are in need during the holidays.
Garcia has been participating in the can drive for four years now.
“Every year I have been a teacher I have made it an activity to do in the fall,” Garcia said.
Through this donation, students realized how fortunate they are and how they are able to help the needy.
The simple effort can have a big impact on the community and students say how they are willing to help in any way possible.
“I feel like even I take my life for granted so I wanted to bring in cans to help because I know to some people even just one can of food is a lot,” junior Katelyn Ruel said.  “If someone gives me the opportunity to help others I’m always willing to step up and do whatever I can.  All the students are able to catch a glimpse of the troubles in the world and do their share to try and help others.”
Garcia makes it a competition for his classes, but it is also an eye-opener to students.
“This year we watched a video called Poor Kids that was on PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) about poverty in America which is something that was really heart-felt and got to the point of people who really are in need in this country,” Garcia said.
Many students claim they are used to having everything given to them without understanding those who don’t.
“You don’t think about it; it’s always been there,” sophomore Mari Takeda said.  “And we take it for granted.  We don’t think about the fact that there are people that struggle to survive everyday.  People don’t realize what they have until they lose it.”
Garcia tries to inspire his students and also unites the school.
“It’s always a good way to encourage others to help others in a real simple way,” Garcia said. “It allows people to come together for a common cause, which is helping people who are less fortunate and it’s a good way to unite classes, even it’s in a competition form.  It’s still for the better good of others.”