The Lakota Board of Education’s 18th annual district-wide food drive for Reach Out Lakota will run Sept. 29 through Oct. 10. In true “WE are Lakota” fashion, the District is challenging families, staff and community members (who are able) to help “stuff the bus” with canned goods and other non-perishable items most needed by the primary food and clothing pantry for families in West Chester and Liberty townships. 

"Stuff the Bus" is Reach Out Lakota’s largest collection and hits during a time when the shelves are emptying out from the summer rush. In 2024, the organization assisted Lakota residents more than 13,400 times, serving over 2,800 individuals. With 220 new families seeking help from Reach Out Lakota last year, the pantry saw a 20 percent increase in overall client visits compared to the prior year.

Despite the centralized mission, the District is issuing a friendly school-by-school competition to help encourage participation. The top-collecting school will be the new home to the traveling trophy that currently lives at VanGorden Elementary School. The winning school will also receive a visit from the Jolly Treats ice cream truck. 

Donations can be dropped off at any Lakota school or Central Office beginning Sept. 29. View this year’s “Stuff the Bus” food drive flyer to see a list of items most needed by Reach Out Lakota. 

Read more about "Stuff the Bus" on Lakota's website.