Updated on November 28, 2024 6:23 am
On Friday, November 22, the Bossier Sheriff’s Office Food Pantry was grateful to receive a generous donation of canned and packaged food items from the Bossier Parish Evaluation Center.
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Dr. Vicki Younger, the Director of the Evaluation Center for the Bossier Parish School System, spearheaded a friendly competition to make a meaningful impact this holiday season. Dr. Younger organized a food drive challenge between her facility, the Bossier Educational Service Center (BESC), and the Central Office.
The goal was simple: collecting as many canned goods as possible for local needy families.
The competition, which saw enthusiastic participation from all three facilities, was a tremendous success. Together, the groups gathered over 1,000 cans of food — far exceeding the initial expectations. This outpouring of generosity will directly benefit two important charitable causes: the Spirit of Christmas food drive and the Sheriff’s Operation Blessing food pantry, both of which provide essential food assistance to families throughout the Bossier Parish area.
The friendly rivalry added an extra layer of fun to the event, with the winning team receiving a sweet reward — an ice cream bar provided by the other participants. After a spirited effort from all sides, Dr. Younger’s team emerged victorious, collecting an impressive 700 cans of food, the most among the three groups.
Operation Blessing, a non-profit food bank program operated by the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office, provides a vital service to the citizens of Bossier Parish. The program accepts non-perishable food donations year-round. The dedicated volunteers from the Bossier Sheriff’s Posse and Ladies Auxiliary work tirelessly to serve approximately 125 families a month across Bossier Parish with non-perishable food. These donations help elderly residents on fixed incomes and others in Bossier Parish who find themselves without access to food.
Sheriff Julian Whittington expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the employees of Bossier Educational Service Center, acknowledging their exceptional efforts in making this donation possible.
“We all are so blessed for your heartfelt donation. Thanks to your generous contribution, families across Bossier Parish will be able to gather together around the table in love and thanksgiving this holiday season,” the Sheriff said.
The food collected will go a long way toward providing much-needed assistance to those facing food insecurity this holiday season. The Spirit of Christmas food drive and the Sheriff’s Operation Blessing food pantry are two important initiatives that rely on community donations to ensure families in need have access to nourishing meals.
If you would like to contribute to the Spirit of Christmas Food Drive, which will take place on December 10th, please contact the Viking Substation at (318) 747-8600 or drop off your donations at 2510 Viking Dr., Bossier City, LA 71111. Your support will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.
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