A sure sign that Christmas is near in Carroll is the return of the Stuff the Bus Food Drive for the Community of Concern Food Pantry, and that holiday tradition is back today (Saturday) at the Carroll Hy-Vee. LuAnne Kustra, who started the annual drive with her daughter Katie almost two decades ago, says Stuff the Bus has grown year after year, and residents have consistently shown overwhelming support. She says that support is especially needed this year.
Statistics from the Community of Concern show they served 1,254 households in 2022, a total of 3,262 people. Kustra says the pantry is on track to surpass those figures this year.
From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. today, a Region XII Western Iowa Transit bus will be parked out front of the Carroll Hy-Vee to be loaded with food donations to the Community of Concern. Kustra says there are several ways for people to support the drive.
Volunteers will deliver the donations to the Community of Concern on Saturday night. Kustra adds any contributions or donations make a difference for Carroll County families. Unlike many other pantries, the Community of Concern is not income-based. Any family experiencing temporary food insecurity is eligible for assistance.
