United Way of Southwest Michigan Supports SMCAA’s “Stuff a Truck” 2025 to Help Food Insecurity
United Way of Southwest Michigan is coming together with the Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency (SMCAA) to support their annual “Stuff a Truck” Food Drive with 99.9 Y Country and News Talk Sports 94.9 WSJM.
The event takes place this week, November 17-21 from 6am-6pm and Saturday, November 22 from 10am-Noon at Roger’s Foodland in St. Joseph. The event is now in its 29th year raising funds, food, and personal care items for the SMCAA with the need continually rising each year.
“One of our many goals at United Way of Southwest Michigan is to support agencies doing great work on the ground by leveraging our voice and our network to events like this one,” stated Anna Murphy, President & CEO of United Way of Southwest Michigan. “The SMCAA is one of our incredible impact partners that does work in the three county area. With recent gaps in SNAP funding, we know the ripple effect will be felt for months for families in our region, and this event will hopefully fill those gaps.”
“This is a critical time for us to replenish our pantry,” said Yvonne Vidt, Community Services Program Manager at SMCAA. “Every donation—large or small—helps ensure local families have access to nutritious food and essential household items.”
“Food insecurity is at an all-time high,” said Kim Smith Oldham, Executive Director of SMCAA. “In 2024, SMCAA assisted over 5,100 individuals through our pantry. As of the close of our FY 2025 on September 30, we have already served more than 9,800 individuals. The need is tremendous, and with the current pause in SNAP benefits, our pantry is experiencing unprecedented demand.”
According to Feeding America West Michigan, over 44,000 residents collectively in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties receive SNAP benefits and were affected by the recent government shutdown. The SMCAA and other pantries experienced an increased need during the shutdown and benefit lapse. That increased need, along with higher food costs further exacerbated the supply of personal care and food items in the SMCAA warehouse. The Stuff a Truck event aims to restock the warehouse to run far into 2026.
You can help by simply visiting the donation site inside the front door of Roger’s Foodland during the weeks of the event, or donate with your credit card online at smcaa.com or ycountrystuffatruck.com.
Donate non-perishable food products including items like canned goods, tuna, boxed food like pasta, coffee, juice, baking products, and cooking oil; personal hygiene products such as shampoo, conditioner, hand soap, deodorant, laundry detergent and more; baby products such as diapers, wipes, and baby food; and paper products such as toilet paper and facial tissue.
In addition to United Way’s support, local businesses have pitched in to make the 29th annual event a success. They include: Roger’s Foodland, LeValley Chevy GMC, Lakefront Roofing & Exteriors, Adent’s Landscape Supply, The Mason Jar Cafe, Boelcke Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, Honor Credit Union, The Matt Swab Agency of Farm Bureau Insurance, and Wolf Financial Advisory.
About United Way of Southwest Michigan
United Way of Southwest Michigan works to create a united & resilient community where everyone contributes, belongs and thrives. We harness resources from corporate, nonprofit, and public partners to address our community's most pressing challenges and make lasting change. Join us in giving, advocacy, and volunteering by visiting uwsm.org
About the Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency (SMCAA)
Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency (SMCAA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families throughout Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties. As part of the national network of Community Action Agencies, SMCAA offers a comprehensive range of services—including housing and energy assistance, food and nutrition programs, emergency aid, early childhood support, and pathways to long-term financial stability. Rooted in the mission of “Helping People. Changing Lives.,” SMCAA works to reduce the causes and effects of poverty, empower families, and strengthen the social and economic well-being of the region. Through partnerships, advocacy, and direct action, the agency helps residents thrive and build a more resilient Southwest Michigan.
