**Headline:** Teller County Food Drive Raises $45,000 in Overwhelming Show of Community Support

**WOODLAND PARK, CO** – In a powerful demonstration of local generosity, a county-wide food drive held this past Friday in Woodland Park successfully raised $45,000 to support local food banks and residents in need. The event, a collaboration between Teller County Commissioners, local leaders, and first responders, took place outside the local Walmart and will help provide meals for an estimated 3,000 people.

The community’s response was immediate and substantial. Organizers, including Walmart store managers who hosted the event, witnessed a steady stream of shoppers and residents eager to contribute. The effort was significantly bolstered by two major contributions: a remarkable $30,000 donation from the Teller County Saddle Club and an additional $15,000 from the Community Cares Bible College.

The impact of the drive was felt not only in the donation bins but also at the cash registers, as Walmart reported that food sales were up nearly 90% during the event, indicating that many shoppers purchased items specifically to donate on their way out of the store.

Commissioner Eric Stone, one of the key figures involved in the initiative, expressed his confidence in the community’s spirit of giving.

“When we put the word out, we knew our community would respond,” Stone stated.

The funds and food collected are being directed to local food pantries to address food insecurity across the county. A food distribution event is scheduled for this coming Monday in Divide at the Little Chapel Food Pantry, where the donations will begin making their way to local families.

Building on Friday’s success, organizers have already planned another food drive. The next event will be held next Friday at the City Market, offering another opportunity for residents to support their neighbors.