Sweet and bubbly are words that describe a can of soda. One thing that is often forgotten about is the pull tab on the top of the can. A lot of times the pull tab is an annoyance as one tries to pull the tab off without breaking a nail. However that little annoyance has a big importance for one school organization.

According to DECA member Trystan Knapp, DECA has been participating in the pull tab fundraising event for 13 years. This year the kickoff started on October 1 and will continue through mid-February.

The pull tabs collected will then be exchanged for money and the proceeds will go to the Ronald McDonald Houses of Wichita, which will help children and families in need.

Collection boxes can be found at elementary schools and local businesses within Hays. Also, collection containers for money are at both McDonald’s in Hays.

Pull tabs needed for the fundraiser do not have to be from just soda cans. They can also be from soup, canned vegetables, canned fruit, and other canned items.

Last year, DECA collected 1.5 million pull tabs with the help of the community. This year there are 46 DECA members.

On December 13, the 46 members of DECA will travel to Wichita to participate in a work day.

At the work day last year, many DECA members were selfless by helping others in need.

“It was a good feeling knowing I helped people afford a place to stay for a lower rate while their kids were being treated,” Junior Trystan Knapp said.