Pack the Pantry raises record $15,000 for Manning Food Pantry

The IKM-Manning communities came together in a record-setting show of generosity during the seventh annual Pack the Pantry fundraiser, raising $15,000 in food and supplies for the C3 Manning Food Pantry.
Held Wednesday, October 14, at Carroll Fareway, the event brought together a record 42 sponsoring teams representing local businesses, churches, charitable organizations, city offices and families. The fundraiser was coordinated by Manning Rotary, the IKM-Manning National Honor Society (NHS), C3 and Fareway.
Each sponsor pledged $250 to participate in a five-minute shopping challenge, attempting to purchase as close to $250 in pantry items as possible without exceeding the amount. NHS students assisted many teams with shopping, bringing enthusiasm and creativity to the competition. Manning Insurance Agency claimed the traveling trophy with a total of $249.96.
“What a great event! It was sure fun to win Pack the Pantry, but the real win is seeing our community come together to stock the shelves and support local families,” said Kara Havick of Manning Insurance Agency.
The Knights of Columbus again made a significant contribution, donating more than $3,100. Since joining the effort, the organization has contributed $14,715 to Pack the Pantry.
More than 17,000 items were purchased and delivered to the pantry in just half a day. Manning Rotary volunteers coordinated the event, loaded and transported supplies, while Fareway manager Ben Klatt and employees accommodated the fundraiser during regular store hours. Todd Stadtlander served as referee, keeping time and enforcing shopping rules with playful penalties. Kyle Arp and Brian Irlbeck helped load and transport the supplies.
Since Pack the Pantry began in 2017 with $4,700 raised, the event has generated more than $65,000 in goods for the pantry. This year’s record results reflect the continued commitment of the community to helping local families.
“Pack the Pantry was so fun to be part of. Everyone is a winner when our communities unite to support kids and families,” said NHS president Cassidy Halbur.
NHS coach Amy Rohe added that the event demonstrates what businesses, community teams and school groups can accomplish together while showing students the impact of service.
The pantry remains an important resource for the community. Its October distribution served a record 29 households, and since opening in 2015, it has served more than 1,647 community households. Volunteers from local churches help stock shelves and prepare monthly orders. The pantry also responds to emergency needs and supports the school food distribution program. Through a partnership with New Opportunities in Carroll, clients can access additional services.
C3 also organizes Wolfpack for Hunger, school open house meals, and educational, celebratory and enrichment activities throughout the community.
C3 extends its appreciation to the sponsors, volunteers, students, churches and businesses who made the event possible. The fundraiser reflects the organization’s mission of sharing Christ’s message through community, celebration and loving action.
Families seeking assistance may contact New Opportunities at 712-792-9266, extension 721, or visit www.newopp.org. Donations to C3 may be mailed to P.O. Box 251, Manning, IA 51455, or made through local churches.