Middle College Wins Drive Away Hunger Contest

Published April 4, 2013

The race is over and Middle College High School has been named the winner of the 1st Annual Drive Away Hunger Challenge.

In February, nine Williamson County high schools went head to head to see which school could collect the most pounds of food per student. The event, which was hosted by Darrell Waltrip Automotive, offered cash prizes to top three schools.

Despite being the smallest school in the competition, Middle College crossed the finish line first by collecting a whopping five and a half pounds per student. According to Principal Dr. Brian Bass, classrooms competed among themselves to see which group could bring in the most.

"I knew the MCHS students and staff would support this idea wholeheartedly," said Bass. "Our students are some of the most altruistic and selfless people young people you could ever hope to meet."

NASCAR Hall of Famer Darrell Waltrip traveled to the school April 10 to present students and faculty with a trophy and a check for $1,250. He thanked the students for their efforts and explained how their generosity will be used to help others.

"GraceWorks pretty much empties their supplies during Christmas and they run out of food," said Waltrip. "Williamson County students collected over 20,000 pounds of food during this competition which will go a long ways in helping others."

Coming in second place was Centennial High School. They collected 4.88 pounds per student and received a check for $750. Summit High School was third with 2.38 pounds per student; they received a check for $500.

The trophy that was given to Middle College will remain at the school until next year's winner is announced.