ARLINGTON – If you’ve shopped at Safeway or Wal-Mart recently you’ve probably seen Arlington High School DECA club students collecting foods.

The students pass out shopping lists of non-perishable food. The school’s marketing and business students are continuing a 22-year-tradition of helping families in need.

“We depend on the community for support, and everyone has been very generous,” DECA advisor Tyler Payne said. “Our goal is to end hunger in our community.”

The DECA club partners with the Arlington Food Bank to adopt 25 families. If any food or unspent donations remain, DECA works with school counselors to identify additional families who need help.

AHS senior Angel Cisnado, who has been part of DECA for three years, said he is proud that the club gives back to the community.

“It makes you feel good when you see how happy the families are to receive these donations,” Cisnado said. “DECA is so much more than just a club.”

The students’ spirits are riding high as they approach the end of another successful food drive, which runs through Dec. 12. If you would like to donate food or money call Payne at 360-618-6300.

Payne said DECA students last year had an incredible food drive, collecting 23,000 pounds of food and grocery items, and raising $8,300 in donations. The contributions were so plentiful that they were able to help 42 families, including financial support for families who needed help with phone bills.