Annual Idaho State Police Food drive begins, here is where you can donate
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IDAHO FALLS — An annual tradition that channels the spirit of giving is in full swing as the Idaho State Police began their 10 Counties of Christmas donation drive Friday.
The fundraiser began in 2017, when troopers collected donations to help provide local families within District 6 with a holiday meal. District 6 encompasses Bonneville, Butte, Clark, Custer, Fremont, Jefferson, Lemhi, Madison and Teton counties.
The number of families helped has grown from 53 in the first fundraiser to 744 last year.
Now, on its 10th anniversary, troopers are calling on the public for help to support families in need.
Through Nov. 25, community members can find troopers at Broulims across eastern Idaho collecting these donations either directly or at the checkout register.
“We have never had to turn a family away, and this year we expect the need to be greater than ever,” said Sgt. Blake Higley. “I know money is tight for a lot of families right now, but even a small donation can make a big difference.”
Higley, who started 10 Counties of Christmas, told EastIdahoNews.com last year that the families who are selected to receive a holiday meal come from local school districts or agencies’ recommendations. Most of these come from local schools.
Since the tradition began, Broulims has partnered with the ISP to make it easier for community members to donate.
Each bag contains either a turkey or ham, potatoes, canned yams, stuffing, green beans, a 2-liter bottle of soda and marshmallows. It costs around $30 to $40 for the whole dinner.