Rivalry week just got a whole lot more generous. The beloved annual “Can the Griz, Can the Cats” food drive has officially launched in both Missoula and Bozeman, bringing together fans of the University of Montana Grizzlies and Montana State University Bobcats in a friendly competition with a cause that everyone can cheer for — stocking local food pantry shelves ahead of the holiday season.

The drive channels the energy and passion of one of college football’s most storied rivalries — the Brawl of the Wild — and redirects it toward something the entire state can feel good about: making sure neighbors in need have enough to eat. While Griz and Cats fans rarely agree on much, both communities have a long tradition of showing up for this food drive year after year, turning gridiron bragging rights into real-world community impact.

Residents in Missoula are encouraged to donate canned and non-perishable food items at designated drop-off locations throughout the city. Every can collected counts toward the community’s total, and the friendly competition between Missoula and Bozeman adds a little extra motivation to give generously.

Food drives like this one play a critical role heading into November and December, when demand at local food banks and pantries typically rises sharply. Community members looking to participate can watch for local drop-off sites and donation details as the drive gets underway.

Whether you bleed maroon and silver or copper and gold, this is one contest where everybody wins — especially the Missoula families who benefit from the outpouring of community generosity that this annual tradition inspires.

Sources: Nonstop Local News Montana