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Local police hosting food drive to meet summer needs

PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — Local police departments will be collecting food to address food needs around Central Illinois. 'Pack the Cruiser' is a four-hour food drive at Kroger locations in Peoria, East Peoria, Bloomington, Bartonville and Morton on Saturday, according to a Kroger news release. Colleen Juergensen, president of Kroger Central Division, said the timing of the drive is important because of the increased need for food when school is out, due to some children no longer having access to school lunches. 'We also know demand is up at food banks and pantries while donations are down,' Juergensen said. 'So, Pack the Cruiser helps ensure food is available when local families need help.' Some of the food items the drive hopes to collect include: Peanut butter (plastic jar) Jelly (plastic jar) Canned fruit & vegetables Cereal boxes Granola bars Applesauce & fruit cups Instant oatmeal Mac & cheese cups Canned tuna & chicken 'Partnering with Kroger on this drive demonstrates how a simple idea can unite communities,' Peoria Police Sgt. Aaron Watkins said. 'Pack the Cruiser is a tangible expression of community care, reinforcing the idea that protecting and serving means addressing real needs, especially those of vulnerable families and children.' According to Kroger, more than one local food bank will be supported by this drive, including Midwest Food Bank and the Goodwill of Central Illinois. Marcie Luhigo, the development director of Midwest Food Bank's Central Team, said one in six children in Illinois face hunger, which can create issues for their development. 'When you partner with Kroger and Midwest Food Bank to pack the cruisers, you are making a difference for those children,' Luhigo said. 'The food you provide goes out to hundreds of feeding programs across the Prairie State. Within a matter of days, additional nutrition will help to sustain their development, growth, and learning.' The Kroger locations participating in the drive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 31 include: 1405 W. Garfield, Bartonville 2507 E. Oakland Avenue, Bloomington 201 S. Main Street, East Peoria 9219 N. Lindbergh Drive, Peoria 1001 W. Jackson, Morton Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.