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GAC Provides 22,800 Cans for Salvation Army
GAC Provides 22,800 Cans for Salvation Army

NORCROSS, Ga. – December 7, 2023

Supporting the 11Alive/Salvation Army Can-A-Thon has been an annual school-wide tradition at Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC) since 2012. This year, the GAC student body of 1,800 students came together and provided 22,800 non-perishable food items for the Salvation Army.

“It is evident that GAC is a school that instills a culture of service above self. Students are educated on the needs of their community and then respond with caring and compassionate hearts. Can-A-Thon is one, out of many, examples of this,” Captain Paul Ryerson, Salvation Army Corps Officer, said.

The food collected will be used in the fight against food insecurity in the Gwinnett County community and beyond to not only fill stomachs but also nourish souls.

On collection day (Friday, December 1), student service and leadership groups from every GAC school level efficiently collected, counted, boxed, packed, and delivered food to the Salvation Army. The GAC Concert Choir provided festive Christmas music, creating a joyful atmosphere as volunteers worked.

Throughout November, students and families, infant-12th grade, rallied their efforts in varying ways to accomplish their goals. Competitions and celebrations spurred the number of food items donated to grow. 

One GAC student shared about the importance of participation. “We work hard to have everyone participate. Individually, our cans don’t seem like much, but when it’s multiplied by everyone’s participation then it really makes an impact,” they shared.

This successful commitment to Can-A-Thon resulted from a collaborative effort across GAC to live out Christ's call in Romans 12:13. "Feed the Hungry. Practice Hospitality."

"The annual Can-A-Thon at GAC is about more than just food. It is an opportunity for our students to join together to help those who live and work alongside us in Gwinnett County," Greater Atlanta Christian School President, Dr. Scott Harsh, shared.

"There is a real need to help ease the burden of hunger and food insecurity by sharing food and love with our surrounding community. Our hope as a school is that our participation instills the values of compassion, generosity, and service in our students."

Click here to view a Photo Gallery from Can-A-Thon Collection Day

Click here to see 11Alive's Can-A-Thon News Feature