GREAT BEND–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 10-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 = 1 lb. 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.”