The Meeker FFA Chapter wrapped up its annual “Food Wars” this month, ending a two-week competition that rallied middle and high school students to collect food for the Mammoth Baptist Church food pantry. The event, held each November in preparation for Thanksgiving, brought in donations at a time when community need is especially high.

Each grade level faced off to see who could contribute the most items, with the sophomores taking first place. After the competition concluded, FFA members joined forces with church volunteers to distribute the collected goods during Mammoth Baptist Church’s monthly food drive, held on the third Saturday of each month.

This year’s effort carried extra significance. With the federal government shutdown creating added financial strain for many families, organizers said the timing of the food drive was important. Thanks to the combined outreach of Meeker FFA and Mammoth Baptist Church, the pantry served more than 72 families, which was an increase from previous months.

Volunteers worked side by side to keep operations running smoothly and ensure families received the support they needed. Church leaders emphasized that the Meeker FFA Chapter’s contributions help sustain the pantry’s mission and extend its reach within the community.