The Lakota Board of Education’s 17th annual district-wide food drive for Reach Out Lakota will run Sept. 30 through Oct. 11. 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 2023, the organization received over 12,000 visits for meals, clothing and personal care items. More than 50 percent of those receiving assistance were children living within Lakota’s boundaries. They also welcomed over 200 new families, a 68% increase from the year prior. 

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 Independence Elementary School. 

Donations can be dropped off at any Lakota school or Central Office beginning Sept. 30. 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.