**Teller County Rallies for Families in Need with Major Food Drive Effort**

WOODLAND PARK — A powerful show of community spirit unfolded on Friday outside the Walmart in Woodland Park, where Teller County residents came together for a county-wide food drive aimed at supporting local food banks and families facing hardship.

Organized by Teller County Commissioners in collaboration with local leaders, first responders, and nonprofit organizations, the event drew an outpouring of generosity. Volunteers and donors filled trucks and an entire storage room with food, warm coats, and baby supplies, all destined for those in need throughout the county.

The initiative, which was spearheaded by Commissioner Eric Stone and other local officials, far exceeded expectations—not only in volume of goods collected but also in financial support. In total, the effort raised $45,000 in monetary donations, with two major contributors leading the charge: the Teller County Saddle Club contributed $30,000, while Community Cares Bible College donated $15,000.

“We believed the community would step up, and they absolutely did,” said Commissioner Eric Stone, reflecting on the overwhelming turnout and generosity.

Organizers reported a nearly 90% increase in food sales during the event, a clear indicator of the community’s commitment to the cause. The collected goods and funds are expected to help feed approximately 3,000 people across the region in the coming weeks.

The event also served as a reminder of the critical need for continued support for local food assistance programs, especially as winter approaches and families face higher living expenses. With the success of this drive, officials hinted that similar efforts are already being planned for the future.

For now, the donations are being distributed to area food banks and shelters, ensuring that Teller County families receive the help they need.