TAVARES, FL (352today.com) – Over the past 18 years, the annual Lake County Transit Services “Stuff the Bus” Food Drive has collected more than 73,000 pounds of nonperishable food items to help feed community members in need.

The 19th “Stuff the Bus” event is almost here, and the county is once again encouraging residents to drop off what they can in the name of lending a helping hand. The Lake County Connection bus (yes, it’s an actual bus) will be parked at the Tavares Crossroads Publix at 2042 State Road 19 on Saturday, Oct. 18 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Donations collected during the drive will help stock the shelves of the nonprofit Lake Cares Food Pantry. Examples of acceptable items include:

Canned Goods

  • meats
  • vegetables
  • fruits
  • stews
  • chili
  • soups
  • pasta

Pantry Staples

  • peanut butter
  • coffee
  • tea bags
  • cereal
  • rice
  • cake or pancake mixes
  • syrup
  • powdered milk
  • juice boxes
  • sugar

Family Essentials

  • baby food
  • formula
  • granola bars
  • cereal bars

Pet Food

  • dry
  • canned