“Pack the Cruiser” Food Drive returns for its 10th year on Saturday

Police agencies across central and southern Indiana will soon reunite to “Pack the Cruiser.” The four-hour food drive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 30 will ask Kroger customers to help address a variety of food needs, particularly for children during the summer months.

“The timing of this drive is especially important because, when school is out, many children won’t have access to the nutrition provided through school lunches,” Eric Halvorson, spokesman for Kroger Central Division, said. We also know demand is up at food banks and pantries while donations are down. So, Pack the Cruiser helps ensure food is available when local families need help.”

The following products are among the items especially appreciated by the local food banks and pantries receiving the donations:

• Peanut butter (plastic jar)
• Jelly (plastic jar)
• Canned fruit & vegetables
• Cereal
• Granola bars
• Applesauce & fruit cups
• Instant oatmeal
• Mac & cheese cups
• Canned tuna & chicken

Pack the Cruiser has grown from three Kroger stores in its first year to more than 30 at local Kroger stores across Indiana and central Illinois.

The drive’s founder, Fishers Detective Dean Mucha, said, “What started as a simple idea to help local families has grown into an incredible community tradition filled with generosity, teamwork, and heart.”

Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank, a beneficiary of Pack the Cruiser, praises police for their support.

“Their continued involvement is a powerful example of what it means to truly serve,” said Suzanna Hobson, executive director of the food bank. “By stepping up year after year – not just as officers, but as neighbors – they show a deep and lasting commitment to the well-being of the communities they protect. It’s about showing up where the need is greatest and making sure no child in Hamilton County goes hungry.”

Officers and deputies will provide shopping lists to customers at the following Hamilton County Kroger stores:

• 11700 Olio Road, Fishers
• 9799 E. 116th St., Fishers
• 7450 Fishers Station (116th & Allisonville), Fishers
• 172 W. Logan St., Noblesville
• 14800 Hazel Dell Crossing, Noblesville
• 17447 Carey Road, Westfield
• 150 W. 161st St., Westfield
• 1217 S. Range Line Road, Carmel
• 10679 N. Michigan Road, Carmel

“Thank you to everyone who has donated, volunteered, and supported this event over the years,” Det. Mucha said. “Together, we’ve helped countless kids and families while showing the true power of community. Here’s to 10 amazing years, and many more to come!”

Kroger invites the community to help officers and deputies “Pack the Cruiser” and join our heroes against hunger, ensuring children don’t go hungry this summer.