‘Stuff the Bus’ event is ‘food for thought’

Just in time for the holidays, two local businesses and a local Newton radio station are joining up to support two local charities.

From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, the public is invited to drop off donated items at the Newton Hy-Vee parking lot in order to “Stuff the Bus” to benefit the Salvation Army Community Food Pantry (aka Jasper County Food Bank) and the Jasper County Animal Rescue League.

The partnering businesses for the event are 95.9 KCOB Radio, Hawkeye Stages — supplying the motor coach to fill — and the Newton Hy-Vee store, providing the parking lot location for the event. KCOB will be broadcasting from the event from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
These businesses are hoping for an outpouring of generosity from area residents in order to benefit the two local charities.

The food pantry recently announced it was experiencing a food shortage and asked for the community’s support to receive donations.

The food pantry’s most needed items include:

• Protein (peanut butter, canned meat, canned fish)

• Canned fruits

• Canned vegetables

• Canned soup

• Dry pasta

• Ramen noodles

• Spaghetti sauce

• Boxed meals (such as macaroni and cheese, Tuna Helper, etc.)

• Breakfast items (including cereal)

• 100 percent fruit juice

• Personal care and paper items (soap, deodorant, toothpaste, etc.)

Additionally, donations are the backbone of the JCARL, which is a no-kill shelter. They are the only shelter in Jasper County and are committed to saving the lives of the homeless animals in the surrounding area.

The Jasper County Animal Rescue League is currently in need of the following items:

• Small breed dry dog food

• Canned dog food

• Peanut butter

• Canned pumpkin

• 55 gallon trash bags

• Disinfectant wipes

• Paper towels

• Dog Leashes