Lake County residents are encouraged to help fight hunger by participating in the 19th Annual Stuff the Bus Food Driveon Saturday, Oct. 18, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Publix Super Market at Tavares Crossroads, 2042 State Road 19.

All donations collected during the event will benefit Lake Cares Food Pantry, a nonprofit organization that provides food assistance to local families. Over the past 18 years, Lake County Transit staff and volunteers have collected more than 73,000 pounds of food to help feed neighbors in need.

During the drive, residents can place nonperishable food donations directly inside a Lake County Connection bus. Accepted items include:

• Canned goods: meats, vegetables, fruits, stews, chili, soups, and pasta

• Pantry staples: peanut butter, coffee, tea bags, cereals, rice, cake or pancake mixes, syrup, powdered milk, juice boxes, and sugar

• Family essentials: baby food, formula, granola bars, and cereal bars

• Pet food: dry or canned

The annual Stuff the Bus event offers a simple, family-friendly way for residents to support one another while helping build a stronger, healthier community.

For more information, call the Lake County Office of Transit Services at 352-323-5733.