This year, the food gathered in the Florida Highway Patrol’s annual “Stuff the Charger” drive will go to victims of Hurricane Michael.

TAMPA BAY – The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and its division of the Florida Highway Patrol have kicked off the annual “Stuff the Charger” food drive.

Now through Nov. 16, the department will be collecting non-perishable food donations for Florida’s families affected by Hurricane Michael. The effort is in conjunction with food banks across the state. Last year, 45 tons of goods provided more than 75,000 meals to those in need.

“Our FHP troopers and many other members of our department have seen firsthand the devastating impacts of Hurricane Michael,” DHSMV Executive Director Terry L. Rhodes said. “We understand that the recovery process does not happen overnight and are committed to continuing to help our neighbors. We ask that you join us to ensure impacted families have what they need this holiday season.”

Col. Gene S. Spaulding, director of the FHP, said, “The Florida Highway Patrol stands with the communities we serve. Hurricane Michael devastated the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend, and with your help, we can provide those in need critical food donations.”

FHP is partnering with a network of local resources whose mission is to deliver much needed food and educate the community in the fight against hunger. Donations provided through this drive will provide food to those who were directly affected by the catastrophic damage of Hurricane Michael. FHP troopers and other DHSMV members have been on the front lines of the recovery efforts removing downed trees, tarping roofs and providing food and resources to those who suffered damage to their homes or lost them completely.

These items are needed:

• canned goods: canned meats (ham, chicken, tuna) canned potatoes, carrots, corn, green beans, canned fruits, vegetables and soup
• dried goods: stuffing, boxed potatoes, rice, cornbread mix, grits, cereal and oatmeal
• other goods: nuts, peanut butter, evaporated milk, bottled water and broth 

Individuals wishing to donate food can bring their contributions to any local FHP Station, drop off location, or contact a Public Affairs Officer in their area for more information. FHP will be hosting events and accepting non-perishable food donations at each troop headquarters across the state including DHSMV General Headquarters in Tallahassee.

Events will be held in Tampa on Thursday (Nov. 1) at the Tampa FHP Office, 11305 N McKinley Drive.

Photo courtesy of the Florida Highway Patrol.

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