On Aug. 27, in just six hours, 5,443 pounds of non-perishable food was collected. Thanks to the collaboration of Hy-Vee and KATE radio., what is hoped to be a new annual event of “Stuff the Truck” was found to be a well placed opportunity for the residents of Freeborn County to unite as one and give to their neighbors. Along with the food collected, The Salvation Army was also given $1,900 in cash and gift cards to be used to purchase what is needed for the pantry.

An unidentified man pushed a grocery cart to the rear of the Salvation Army truck overflowing with food items. Capt. Jim Brickson asked him what he was giving and the man replied, “All of it. It’s all for you. I ate yesterday, I will eat tonight and tomorrow I will eat again. I have never felt the pain of being hungry.”

Last month The Salvation Army distributed more than 14,000 pounds of food to needy residents of Freeborn County. “I am extremely thankful to all of those that have given their time and talents,” Brickson said.