BUSINESS NEWS
Great Bend Schools joined forces with Wheatland Electric’s annual Cram the Van food drive to collect nearly five tons in cash and food donations ($1 = 1 lb.) to benefit the Community Food Bank of Barton County. Students from twelve area schools participated in a friendly food drive competition, collecting the equivalent 9,661 pounds during November’s competition.
Through the generosity of Gifting Forward, $1,500 in cash prizes were awarded to the top four schools based on the highest per-student contribution, recognizing the dedication of students who made an exceptional impact. All donations were delivered to the Community Food Bank of Barton County in Great Bend, ensuring vital support reaches local families just in time for the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons.
With this year’s contribution, the ten-year total collected through Cram the Van in Great Bend has reached an incredible 92,327 pounds — more than 46 tons of cash and non-perishable food items donated since the program’s inception in 2014. ($1 donation equals one pound of food).
“This event empowers our local students to make a difference by supporting those in need, while teaching them the meaningful impact of small acts of kindness. Through their efforts, they experience how every contribution, no matter the size, can profoundly affect the lives of others,” said Alli Conine, director of member services and corporate communication for Wheatland Electric. “All of this is made possible through the continued generosity and support of Gifting Forward.”
About Cram the Van
Every fall since 2014, Wheatland Electric has rallied communities across southwest and central Kansas to support local food banks through Cram the Van, an annual food drive featuring community gatherings, school competitions and collection events. The program was named for its signature red passenger van which played a prominent role transporting donations to food banks across Wheatland’s service territory. In 2023 Wheatland retired the van and shifted their efforts to better meet the needs of community food banks by launching the Power the Pantry initiative, pledging $50,000 annually and partnering with local businesses, organizations, and individuals to raise matching funds. Thanks to the dedication and generosity of their members, over the past decade Wheatland has facilitated nearly 212 tons of cash and food donations (423,660 pounds) for local food banks. Each donation is delivered directly to the food bank where it was contributed or designated, ensuring community support remains local. For more information or to find out how to be a community partner, visit www.weci.net/cram-van-food-drive.
