Gautam Ketkar ’24
Jack Riley ’24
Colin Schlitt ’24
The Can Drive is an annual EA tradition, from November 11th to 22nd, where the entire student body collects canned goods, along with other essential items. The proceeds are donated to EA’s community partners: SHARE, the Great Valley Food Cupboard, and St. Mary’s Church in Chester.
Each form is responsible for bringing in a wide variety of items. EA’s Lower School, Middle School, and Freshmen are in charge of purchasing canned goods. The Sophomores are responsible for collecting protein, the Juniors will gather toiletries, and the Seniors will provide cleaning supplies. Students who have purchased donations for the Can Drive drop off their goods at the parking lot near the baseball field or the Lower School carline. Explaining the logistics of this year’s Can Drive, Rick Chen ‘24, a member of the Vestry, states, “The Vestry is planning on making the Can Drive a fun experience for all, with multiple dates available for drop off and special incentives for entire grades to help promote donation.”
Head Chaplain Father Tim Gavin believes the main goal of the Can Drive is “to do good work.” This objective is especially relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many are struggling financially and are in need of essential supplies. Senior Warden of the Vestry Myles Davis ‘22 addresses this concern, saying, “COVID, if anything, makes us have to do more.” He adds,“We have to use the Can Drive as a call to action.”
Although the primary goal of the Can Drive is to raise more donations each year, Gavin emphasizes the importance of quality donations. “We’re more interested in the quality of what we receive rather than the number.” he says.
Vestry and Student Council members collect items for last year’s Can Drive.
Photo Courtesy of EA Communications Department
This long lasting EA tradition has continued to convey the same message every year — help those in need. In the words of Senior Class President Alec Riley ‘22, “The Can Drive is a great way for students to expand their worldview and think outside of our closed school community. It’s important to think of other people who may not have all the opportunities that we have.”