CCA’s ‘Stuff the Truck’ sets record: 1 million pounds of food

Published 5:30 am Thursday, February 19, 2026

Milestone achieved after 18 years

A local food drive has come a long way from its corporate roots, growing into a true grassroots effort that has now reached a major milestone.

Clatsop Community Action Regional Food Bank’s annual “Stuff the Truck” campaign has surpassed a benchmark by collecting a total of 1 million pounds of food over the course of 18 years. CCA Executive Director Viviana Matthews said it reflects years of generosity across Clatsop County.

“This milestone is really about our community coming together to support one another,” Matthews said. “Stuff the Truck represents just one part of the broader network that keeps food moving to families who need it.”

About 30% of county residents benefit from the food bank’s services either directly or indirectly, according to program organizers. Families access fresh produce through summer pantries, mobile distributions and seasonal warehouse programs, while neighboring pantries across the region rely on the organization’s supply chain to keep shelves stocked.

From corporate launch to grassroots effort

In its early years, the campaign leaned heavily on sponsorship and large-scale corporate support. Those partnerships helped launch and sustain the drive during its formative period. But over time, Matthews has watched the campaign evolve.

Individual donors now make up a growing share of contributions, Matthews said. The shift has transformed the effort into a highly localized movement where small donations from households and community groups collectively drive impact.

“We hope to expand community engagement even further — encouraging more local businesses, organizations and individual households to participate,” she said. “Increasing awareness about food insecurity in Clatsop County and making it easy for people to give, whether through food or financial contributions, will remain a key focus.”

Leadership behind the campaign

Luke Colvin first brought the “Stuff the Truck” concept to the food bank and continues to coordinate the effort each year. Colvin recruits sponsors, builds partnerships with local organizations and mobilizes volunteers and employees to help collect and distribute donations.

His ability to bring together diverse community partners has been central to sustaining the campaign’s momentum, Matthews said.

Ongoing needs remain high

Despite the celebratory milestone, demands for food assistance remain steady, said Matthews.

Shelf-stable items are the most needed donations, particularly canned proteins such as tuna and chicken, along with canned fruit, vegetables, pasta, rice and other pantry staples, Matthews said.

Nonperishable food helps the organization maintain consistent inventory and distribute meals efficiently through its regional network, especially during the fall and winter months when fresh produce programs slow down.

Looking ahead

The food bank plans to expand community engagement in future campaigns by encouraging more local business, civic organizations and individual households to participate. Increasing awareness in the county about hunger remains a top priority, Matthews said, along with making it easier for residents to contribute both through food and financial donations.

“‘Stuff the Truck’ succeeds because neighbors support neighbors,” Matthews said. “Reaching 1 million pounds shows what is possible when a community decides to care for each other.”