Thanks to the hard work of Wheatland Electric Cooperative members and local partners, the 2025 Power the Pantry campaign raised an impressive $130,203 for food banks. This brings the total food donations over the past 11 years to more than 279 tons, equating to 558,183 pounds.
Since 2014, Wheatland has encouraged communities in southwest and central Kansas to support local food banks through Power the Pantry. Originally known as Cram the Van, this campaign has included community gatherings, school competitions, and collection events using a big red van.
In 2023, the initiative shifted its approach, focusing on cash donations instead of just food. This change allows food banks to better serve families by purchasing fresh items like meat and dairy, which are often lacking in food drives. Wheatland committed to donating $50,000 annually to help food pantries meet their needs.
In 2025, the cooperative set an ambitious goal to raise $100,000, and once again, the community exceeded expectations. The campaign featured a variety of fundraising activities, including a ticket drawing for a Kansas basketball game, school competitions, and a charity golf tournament, all contributing to the final total.
The focus on cash donations is crucial. According to food pantry directors, it reduces waste and gives pantries the flexibility to provide what families really need. This year also saw significant contributions like 10,944 pounds from schools in Great Bend and a donation of $32,742 worth of deli meat from Tyson Fresh Meats.
Alli Conine, Wheatland’s director of member services, highlighted the impact of community effort. “Exceeding our goal means local food banks can provide more resources to families. It truly shows what we can achieve together,” she said.
Funds were distributed to various food banks:
– Argonia Food Bank: $515
– Caldwell Food Bank: $5,225
– Conway Springs Mission Mart: $5,664 plus food items
– Emmaus House (Finney County): $6,095
– Genesis Family Health: $5,635
– Community Food Bank of Barton County (Great Bend): $17,332 plus 10,944 lbs. of food
– Harper Mission Mart: $5,675
– First Baptist Church of Holcomb: $4,255
– Wichita County Ministerial Alliance (Leoti): $7,055
– Hope’s Closet/Ministerial Alliance (Scott City): $14,700
– Hamilton County Food Pantry (Syracuse): $7,135
– Greeley County Food Bank (Tribune): $8,515
This collaborative effort showcases a commitment to the community, demonstrating that together, we can make a real difference. As local needs grow, initiatives like Power the Pantry become even more vital, reflecting a deep-rooted spirit of support in these communities.
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