The Kentucky State Police “Cram the Cruiser” food drive collected nearly 210 tons (419,507 lbs.) of food this year to help Kentucky families struggling financially during the holiday season. That’s 79,851 lbs. more than last year.
“Due to the generous giving spirit of individuals, businesses, schools and civic organizations throughout the state, we have gathered almost 40 tons more than we did last year,” said KSP Commissioner Rick Sanders.
“Words can’t express how proud I am of the posts and community members who went above and beyond to make this food drive successful. It’s a genuine public service that will make a real difference to many families facing difficult times.”
KSP initiated the Cram the Cruiser program in 2010 to assist needy families in its local post and region areas. Since then, the agency has contributed more than one million pounds of food to shelters, food banks and churches throughout the Commonwealth.
“Helping those in need is a fundamental part of the Kentucky State Police mission,” Sanders added. “We are grateful to be able to give back to our local communities who support our units throughout the year.”
Over the years, the campaign has developed into a friendly competition among Kentucky State Police posts and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement regions.
This year, KSP Post 16 in Henderson took top honors with a total of 89,932 pounds of food collected.
Capt. Robert Shoultz, commander of the post, praised local citizens, businesses, schools and civic organizations for their support of the project. “Their generosity is impressive and certainly reflects the spirit of the season.”
Shoultz also recognized the hard work of Trooper First Class Corey King, public affairs officer for the post, who spearheaded the effort, which increased the post’s collections by more than 86,199 pounds from last year’s results.
“I am especially proud of TFC King’s efforts,” Shoultz said. “He always does an outstanding job organizing the Cram the Cruiser Program for Post 16. He maintains contact with donors throughout the year and enlists the assistance of all local media outlets to promote the campaign. Assisted by other Post 16 personnel, he organized events in Owensboro, Henderson and Beaver Dam for public donations. In addition, TFC King drove to numerous locations to pick up and transport donated goods.”
Kentucky State Police
