Shreveport, La. — In a clear demonstration of the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office’s commitment to serving the community beyond law enforcement, Sheriff Henry Whitehorn Sr. announced the launch of the agency’s eighth annual Thanksgiving food drive. The effort, aimed at supporting the Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana, seeks to gather more than 4,000 pounds of non‑perishable food items for families and individuals experiencing food insecurity throughout the parish.
How to donate
Donations are being accepted through November 19 at a series of convenient locations across the parish. Contributors can drop off items at the Caddo Correctional Center, the Community Relations and Investigations division, the Caddo Courthouse Tax Department, the Sheriff’s Administrative Offices in Government Plaza, Sheriff Safety Town, the Regional Training Academy, and at various sub‑stations in Shreveport, Keithville, and Oil City.
Organizers remind donors that items packaged in glass containers will not be accepted, as they pose a safety risk during handling and transport. The top ten most‑requested items include canned meats, peanut butter, dried beans, rice, pasta or macaroni and cheese, canned vegetables, canned fruit, boxed cereal, oatmeal or grits, and flour or sugar packaged in bags of five pounds or less.
Why the drive matters
Hunger remains a persistent challenge in Northwest Louisiana, especially as the holiday season approaches. By mobilizing community members, local businesses, and faith‑based groups, the sheriff’s office hopes to alleviate the burden on families who might otherwise go without a Thanksgiving meal. The partnership with the Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana ensures that collected goods are distributed efficiently to those most in need.
“Our mission is to protect and serve every resident of Caddo Parish,” Sheriff Whitehorn said. “That protection includes helping our neighbors put food on the table during the holidays. I encourage everyone—whether you’re a longtime resident or a new face in town—to join us in this important effort.”
Community response
Local churches, schools, and civic organizations have already pledged support, promising to host collection bins and spread the word through newsletters and social‑media channels. The sheriff’s office has also coordinated with the parish’s volunteer network to assist with sorting and transporting donations to the food bank.
Residents who wish to contribute can also make monetary donations directly to the Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana, which will use funds to purchase fresh produce and other essential items that complement the non‑perishable donations.
Looking ahead
The annual food drive has grown steadily since its inception, reflecting the strong sense of responsibility that Caddo Parish citizens feel toward one another. With the eighth iteration underway, organizers are optimistic that the target of 4,000 pounds will be met—or even exceeded—thanks to the collective generosity of the community.
For a full list of donation sites and additional details, visit the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office website or contact the Community Relations division at (318) 555‑1234.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
