Vandegrift HS student holds toy drive to support Dell Children's Medical Center

AUSTIN, Texas - The countdown to Christmas has already started, and it's been a busy season for Santa's helpers at Vandegrift High School.

"I think the reason why I first started the toy drive is the support that we've gotten from our community, and that's the Vandegrift Band or the Vandegrift High School itself as a whole. And also, the fact that almost every single Texan or Austinian has gotten some sort of help from Dell Children's Hospital. And so I think it was a great way to give back to our community and help out those in need," says Vandegrift High School senior Sebastien Patel.

Patel started this project last year. His goal was to get 150 toys, and they were able to double that.

"This year, we've gotten support from Home Depot as well for donation supplies and then support from, again, our local community and other parents and alumni that are just willing to help," says Patel.

Patel says taking part of this project brings him joy as he gets to see kids who are in the hospital during the holidays feel some type of normalcy.

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"It's awesome seeing the reaction and going, that one, that toy. It's amazing seeing their eyes glow and their facial expressions just shine," says Patel.

Patel is graduating this year, but he says he's optimistic to leaving this project in good hands next year.

"My younger brother, Collin Patel, who's a freshman this year, will be a sophomore next year, is also going to carry on the tradition. He's learning the ropes right now and learning the process of getting the support of the people around us," says Patel.

The Toy Drive will be going on up to Friday, Dec. 13. If you would like to help, students can drop off donations in the English Hall or in the front office. 

Patel has even set up an Amazon Wish List so others outside the VHS Band family can donate and support their efforts.