Food bank calls for support as Rock 102’s Stuff the Bus approaches

The Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre is calling on the community to step up and support those in need through a big annual food drive event.

On Thursday, Rock 102 and Saskatoon Transit will team up with the food bank for the 20th annual Stuff the Bus event, which aims to fill a bus to the brim with food donations.

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Stuff the Bus begins at 10 a.m. on Thursday and runs until 6 p.m., with donations accepted at the Saskatoon Co-op Food Store on Eighth Street.

“Stuff the Bus is one of the many ways people can get involved and show their support to Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre,” Laurie O’Connor, the food bank’s executive director, said in a statement.

“With the increasing costs of living, we all need to play a role in making sure folks have food on the table.”

The annual event started in 2005 when Eroca Pellerin, a Saskatoon Transit operator, decided to do something to help those in need. She approached Saskatoon Transit with the idea, and Stuff the Bus was born.

“Every year, we are amazed to see the people of Saskatoon give so generously. Saskatoon is really made of compassionate people who know that when times are tough, we are stronger together,” O’Connor added.

Last year, Stuff the Bus brought in 17,317 pounds of food donations and raised a record $66,219 for the food bank.

The food bank said its most-wanted items this year include baby formula, baby food, canned fruits and veggies, hearty soups and stews, whole-grain pasta and cereals, canned protein options and peanut butter.

“In addition to food, cash donations are equally important and allow the organization to take advantage of bulk purchasing power to help restock depleted supplies due to increased demand,” the food bank noted.

Rock 102 is the sister station to 650 CKOM.