MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
BrightHouse is once again inviting the community to lend a hand — and help fill a school bus — during its annual “Stuff the Bus” donation drive on Saturday, Nov. 1.
The drive, supported by Eagle Media, Bretz Injury Law, Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, Friendly Bingo, JACAM Catalyst, Hog Wild Pit Bar-B-Q, and ProValue Insurance. the drive uses a full-size school bus provided by Nickerson/South Hutchinson USD 309.
The event will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Dillons Marketplace on 30th and Plaza East, where BrightHouse staff and volunteers will be collecting food, household, and personal care items to stock the organization’s pantry. Donations directly benefit BrightHouse’s emergency shelter and Jean’s House, as well as support groups held throughout the year.
“Stuff the Bus is really important to us because it helps keep our pantry full for both our emergency shelter and Jean’s House,” said Sue Wray of BrightHouse. “It also lets us provide snacks and comfort items for support groups, which helps people open up and feel at ease when talking about difficult issues.”
Once filled, all donations are taken to the BrightHouse shelter, where they typically last through most of the following year.
Items most needed include shelf-stable foods like boxed meals, peanut butter, coffee, tea, powdered creamer, and oatmeal, along with cleaning supplies, paper products, and new pillows for shelter guests. Individually wrapped snacks — such as cookies, chips, or granola bars — are especially helpful for children’s programs.
Gift cards, cash, and Dillons “Good as Gold” cards are also welcome.
“Budgets are tight for everyone right now, and we’re no different,” Wray said. “The community’s support really stretches our resources and helps us serve families all year long.”