10th Annual Food Boxes for Kids Program to be held this holiday season

The Vernon County Sheriff’s Office will begin collecting food during the month of December to prepare and deliver food boxes specifically for children.

Vernon County Sheriff Jason Mosher started the program in 2013 as a way to reach out to children in the community that could use some extra help during the Christmas Holiday. “There are some great programs out there providing toys for kids and other kinds of assistance, but we found that a box of food and snacks means a great deal to some of the children out there,” said Mosher.

Sheriff Mosher started the program in 2013 after a small child excitedly told him how much they liked going to school because it was warm there and they had “really good food.” Mosher said the child had little food in the home and was beyond excited when offered a candy bar. "We take a lot for granted throughout life. But for some people, those small things can make a huge impact on their life. Our goal is to help make as many childrens' Christmas holidayas good as possible."

While any type of non-perishable food items are accepted, the VCSO is requesting kid-friendly food and snacks as donations. These items can include canned soups, chili, Spaghetti-Os, and other cannedf oods already cooked. Jars of pasta sauce, peanut butter and jelly, and other items that provide easy meals. Snack items like pudding, candy bars, hot chocolate, etc., are also recommended.

Anyone wishing to donate can drop off food at the VCSO or a partner location including Woods Super Market, Dollar General, Sheldon High School and Bronaugh High School. Other locations are expected to be added.