Local schools recently collected more than 11,000 nonperishable food items to donate to 3 local food pantries that combine to serve more than 6,000 people in need each month. Newton Parrish Elementary School won the competition by collecting more than 4,000 cans.
Volunteer Owensboro Director Randy Lanham came up with the idea for the “Battle of the Cans” food drive and had a goal of collecting 10,000 cans. He said he was grateful for all the participation and was ecstatic to exceed the goal.
The food items were donated to Crossroads, The Help Office, and Shephard’s Hand.
Crossroads originally began as a soup kitchen but later grew to also offer an emergency shelter for women and children.
“I want to thank you on behalf of all of us at Crossroads, all the volunteers, and all the people that we serve in the community for this huge amazing blessing,” said Crossroads Board Chair Haley Huskisson. “You helped so many that are hungry in our community, and we are so very thankful for each and every one of you and all of your hard work.”
The Help Office of Owensboro has been providing food assistance to the poor and homeless in Daviess County for more than 50 years.
“Because of (the community’s) hard work in donating that food, we are able to feed those that are hungry in Daviess County,” said Executive Director Angela Settle. “You are all winners, regardless if you one that trophy or not.”
Shepherd’s Hand started out as a clothing ministry in 2014 but has added other services since then, including the creation of a food pantry in 2019.
“Our pantries are looking great and we appreciate everything you’ve done,” said founder and director Gwen Bennett.
As the winners of the food drive competition, Newton Parrish will receive a custom-made trophy, donuts for the staff, and a school-wide music assembly by Lanham. Estes Elementary placed second and will receive a $350 donation from Volunteer Owensboro, while Tamarack Elementary placed third and will receive a $150 donation.
Other schools participating were Audubon, Daviess County High, Country Heights, Sorgho, Mary Carrico, Apollo High, East View, Central Office/Learning Center, Heritage Park, Whitesville, College View, and the Owensboro Catholic 4-6 Campus.
Also supporting the drive were Rolling Pin Pastry Shop, Cromwell Media, artist Andy Shoemaker with Medieval Man Studios, and an anonymous donor.
“Others reached out asking how they could help and are looking forward to the next can drive, hoping churches and businesses can get involved,” Lanham said. “It is amazing what our community can come together and do to help others.”
