MONTPELIER — Bear Lake High School’s Student Council recently organized a food drive that resulted in the collection of 1,007 pounds of food for local families in need.

This drive was part of the Idaho Association of Student Councils' statewide service project, aimed at supporting local food banks. For Montpelier, the food was collected for the Southeast Idaho Community Action Agency food bank.

According to Bear Lake High School Student Council adviser Tahnee Cook, the project’s goal was to support the local community by addressing food insecurity.

“So many people go to sleep hungry at night. So why not try to make a difference. Our student body officers rose to the occasion and did a fantastic job getting donations,” Cook said.

The food drive began with a week-long donation period at the high school, after which Student Council members took their efforts to Broulim's, a local grocery store. In just six hours, they collected four grocery carts full of canned food donations from shoppers.

Student Body President Miya Keetch noted the success of the event, stating, “It went surprisingly well. It came together super well and easy. It's going to be so beneficial to the community and not only that but I think it really showed some of our community and school what we could do together.”

She also commented on the level of generosity from the community, mentioning that many Broulim's shoppers donated items, which exceeded her expectations.

The food drive contributed significantly to supporting local families via the SEICCA food bank, putting food on the table for those who might otherwise have none.