In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Montana state employees came together to donate an impressive 7,500 pounds of food to the Montana Food Bank Network (MFBN) during a month-long interagency competition. The initiative, which took place in December, was part of Governor Greg Gianforte’s 12 Days of Giving campaign. Agencies across the state competed to contribute the most food items, with the Department of Commerce emerging as the top donor. This collaborative effort not only provided essential resources to those in need but also highlighted the generosity and solidarity among government workers.

The food drive competition kicked off on the fifth day of the governor's charitable campaign and ran for two weeks, from December 6th to December 20th. Participating agencies rallied their teams to gather much-needed supplies for MFBN, which has been serving as the state's sole statewide food bank since 1983. Working alongside over 330 community partners, MFBN distributed more than 16 million pounds of food across Montana’s 56 counties in 2023. The governor expressed his gratitude to all participants, particularly praising the Department of Commerce for their outstanding contribution of 1,383 food items.

The Department of Public Health and Human Services secured second place by donating 1,340 items, while the Department of Administration followed closely behind with 1,193 items. These donations were crucial in addressing food insecurity within the state. Each agency played a vital role in ensuring that families facing hardship had access to nutritious meals during the holiday season. The competition fostered a sense of camaraderie and encouraged friendly rivalry among departments, ultimately benefiting countless Montanans.

The success of this year's food drive underscores the importance of collective action in tackling social issues like hunger. Through the generosity of state employees, many individuals and families will have access to much-needed food supplies. Additionally, the event serves as a reminder of the impact that organized efforts can have on improving the lives of others. As MFBN continues its mission to combat food insecurity, it relies on the support of dedicated volunteers and donors who share its vision of a well-nourished community.