BEDFORD — Lawrence County showed just how powerful a united community can be. Nearly 7,000 food and personal care items were collected during this year’s WBIW, WQRK, and LITEFM’s “Stuff A Bus” drive, a remarkable outpouring of generosity that helped ensure local families will have what they need for the holidays and this winter. WBIW, WQRK, and LITEFM, along with the L.I.F.E. Food Pantry, offered heartfelt thanks to every resident who donated food, gave money, or volunteered their time to support L.I.F.E.’s mission.
The annual event, hosted by WQRK Classic Hits 105.5, WBIW 1340 AM, and LiteFM 102.5, once again proved to be one of the most meaningful traditions shared among the stations and their listeners. Held Saturday outside JayC Plus in Bedford, the drive invited residents to bring nonperishable items from home, purchase food while shopping, or make a cash contribution. Every item and every dollar helped stock L.I.F.E.’s shelves during one of the busiest times of the year.
Pantry workers emphasized ongoing needs such as canned meats, flour, sugar, macaroni and cheese, coffee, tea, canned fruit, dish detergent, toilet paper, and other essential staples. They noted that these items move quickly, often leaving the pantry as soon as they arrive, and reminded donors to check expiration dates before giving.
L.I.F.E. can accept nearly anything that can be bought at a grocery store, including refrigerated and frozen goods. Volunteers also rely heavily on plastic grocery bags, which clients use to carry food and personal care items home, especially those who walk or bike to the pantry.
For nearly 20 years, the three hometown stations have supported L.I.F.E. through this drive, partnering again this year with Rogers Group Inc., whose support helped elevate awareness and reinforce the importance of giving.
WQRK Classic Hits 105.5, WBIW 1340 AM, and LiteFM 102.5 say the nearly 7,000 donated items will make a direct, immediate difference for local families heading into the holiday season, turning a simple act of generosity into something deeply meaningful.
Holly Davis, President and Owner of the multimedia company, shared her thoughts as she and her team wrapped up the day’s event.
“This event reflects the very best of Lawrence County. My staff shows up on their own time, no questions asked, because they care deeply about this community and the families we serve. Our sponsors are the backbone of this event, and we truly could not do this without their commitment and generosity. I’m equally grateful to every person who took a moment out of their day to contribute during our four-hour food drive. Their kindness ensures that neighbors in need will have food on their tables.
I also want to extend a special thank-you to the entire team at Jay C Food Store. They go above and beyond, ordering extra inventory, scheduling added staff, saving boxes for us, and providing sidewalk space that allows our team to sort donations efficiently so there is no additional burden placed on the L.I.F.E. Food Pantry. Their willingness to store refrigerated and frozen items in their coolers is an incredible help. Their management team does a remarkable job rallying their staff, especially the cashiers, who always play a key role in encouraging customers to donate. Their partnership is invaluable.
And finally, a heartfelt word of appreciation to the L.I.F.E. Food Pantry staff and volunteers. The work you do every day is nothing short of remarkable. Your compassion and dedication inspire all of us, and we are honored to support you and to stand beside you in this mission.”
