FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Pam Carroll 715-892-1094 pcarroll@arborvitae.wi.gov 

 The Northwoods community came together in a remarkable show of generosity during the Community Food Drive held on Saturday, November 8. Local fire departments from Arbor Vitae, Woodruff, Minocqua, and Hazelhurst, in partnership with area organizations and the Wings Program at Lakeland Union High School (LUHS), joined forces to collect nonperishable food items for families in need.

From 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., flashing lights and smiling volunteers greeted residents at donation drop-off points across the four towns. The community’s response was overwhelming — a total of 3,200 pounds of food was collected and delivered to the Lakeland Food Pantry on Monday, November 10.

“Once again, our community stepped up in an incredible way,” said Pamela Carroll, Arbor Vitae Town Board Supervisor. “Seeing people come together to help their neighbors reminds us of the generosity and compassion that define the Northwoods.”

Arbor Vitae Fire Chief Mike Van Meter shared his appreciation: “We couldn’t be prouder of how everyone came together — from the firefighters and students to the families who took time out of their weekend to donate. This effort truly shows what it means to serve and protect our community in every way possible.”

The LUHS Wings students played a key role in the effort, collecting donations from the participating fire departments and transporting them to the Lakeland Pantry, ensuring that shelves were restocked just in time for the holiday season.

Event Highlights:
• Date: Saturday, November 8, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Locations: Fire stations and community drop-off sites across Hazelhurst, Minocqua, Woodruff, and Arbor Vitae
• Partners: Local fire departments, LUHS Wings Program, and community volunteers
• Impact: 3,200 pounds of food collected and delivered to the Lakeland Pantry to support area families 
Continuing the Spirit of Giving
Community members who missed the food drive but wish to contribute can still make an impact. Cash donations and nonperishable food items are welcome year-round at local food pantries throughout the Northwoods.