400 community volunteers rolled up their sleeves at Moraine Park Technical College on Tuesday, September 29 to pack more than 17,000 snack packs for distribution to 25+ local nonprofit partners and schools that serve children and seniors. The “Packing for a Purpose” event officially kicks off the United Way of Washington County’s 90th annual campaign.
Community members were invited to bring canned goods and non-perishable food items to Moraine Park, as United Way and Bob’s Main Street Auto and Towing wrapped up a community-wide food drive. All donations collected during the “Fill the Truck” event will benefit food pantries throughout Washington County.
“Every box we pack and every canned good we collect goes straight to a neighbor in need,” said Sarah Stadler, 2026 Campaign Co-Chair in a press release. “More importantly, these events and the campaign are reflections of the purpose of United Way — uniting community members, businesses and nonprofit agencies around a shared purpose.”
“It’s inspiring to see hundreds of people giving their time and packing food side by side,” said Jim Schwalen, United Way of Washington County Board Chair and 2026 Campaign Co-Chair in a press release. “But the real impact happens throughout the year, as kids and families in every corner of Washington County receive support from our funded partners.”
The campaign kickoff highlights the start of United Way’s most visible fundraising effort of the year.
Funds raised will support more than 25 community initiatives and programs addressing Washington County's most pressing needs in health, financial security and youth opportunity.
United Way of Washington County invites all community members to help power the next 90 years of United Way. The campaign runs through December 31, 2026.
