MADISON – Thinking of others as the holiday season opens, Beta Club members at Bob Jones High School are preparing to open their annual drive for canned food.

“We saw a need amongst our community, specifically, students in Madison City Schools that need food over the winter break. Those who cannot afford food receive two hot, free meals every day at school and go without that constant supply of food during Christmas break,” senior and Beta Club officer Ashlie Campbell said.

“We wanted to offer them food to help close the gap and take away the stress the parents might feel during the break,” Campbell said.

Collection dates will run from Dec. 4 through Dec. 15. On Dec. 16 from 9 to 11 a.m., Beta Club members “will host the pickup at Bob Jones for local families to come and get the food that was brought in by Bob Jones students,” she said. After 11 a.m., the students will deliver the food to families who could not visit the school

They will take all leftover food to Inside-Out Ministries.

Last year, they collected 2,000-plus cans and more than $400 to buy additional food. The 2017 goal is 3,000 items and $500. Last year, Beta Club helped 35 Madison families.

Debbie Scott sponsors Beta Club.

“We hope to have 100 percent of the student body participate. While this might be unrealistic, we really want students to get involved to help us make a huge difference in our community,” Campbell said.

A contest during second block will determine the classes that donate the most food and raise the most money to buy more food before pickup day. The club will treat winning classes to Chick-fil-A breakfast.

The club intends to assemble food boxes with a variety of food. They need easy-to-serve staples for children like soups, spaghetti-o’s cereal, snacks and peanut butter.

To identify recipients, the club is sending letters to MCS counselors to suggest families with most needs. “However, anyone in the community in need is welcome to come by Bob Jones cafeteria on Dec. 16 between 9 and 11 a.m. to gather necessary items,” Campbell said.

In addition, club members will take box requests by phone or email starting Dec. 11. To reserve a pre-packed box, call 256-772-2526 or email dlscott@madisoncity.k12.al.us.