Paris Independent School District is celebrating a decade of generosity as its annual “Stuff the Bus” competition marks its 10th year of supporting the Downtown Food Pantry. This year, students and staff across the district once again answered the call to help local families, collecting more than 1,800 cans of tuna to help stock the pantry during the holiday season.
For the first time in the competition’s history, Paris High School claimed the coveted Traveling Turkey Trophy, collecting more than 500 cans of tuna. The Wildcats’ impressive effort earned them the top spot in this year’s friendly district-wide competition, bringing the trophy to PHS for the first time.
What began in 2017 as a friendly challenge between Jennifer Ray and Paris High School Assistant Principal Sabrina Day has grown into a beloved district tradition. Over the past 10 years, Paris ISD students and staff have donated more than 26,800 food items to the Downtown Food Pantry, making a lasting difference for families throughout the community.
“Ten years ago, we started with a little friendly competition and a desire to help our neighbors,” said Jennifer Ray, director of the annual drive. “To see what this has become is truly incredible. Year after year, our students, staff, and families rise to the challenge without hesitation. It doesn’t matter whether we’re collecting stuffing or tuna. When our community has a need, our Wildcats step up. That’s what makes this tradition so special.”
The decision to collect tuna for the second consecutive year came in response to the Downtown Food Pantry’s need for protein-rich food items. By adjusting the focus of the drive, Paris ISD continues to ensure its donations make a meaningful impact where they are needed most.
Allan Hubbard, Executive Director of the Downtown Food Pantry, expressed his appreciation for the district’s continued partnership and generosity.
“Paris ISD has been an incredible partner to the Downtown Food Pantry for the past 10 years,” Hubbard said. “The fact that they are willing to adjust their annual drive to meet the needs of the families we serve speaks volumes about their commitment to this community. The holiday season can be especially difficult for families facing food insecurity, and having dependable partners like Paris ISD makes a tremendous difference. We are grateful for every student, staff member, and family who helped make this year’s drive another success.”
As Paris ISD celebrates this 10-year milestone, the annual “Stuff the Bus” competition continues to demonstrate that a little friendly competition, combined with a tremendous amount of Wildcat heart, can make a lasting impact.
Photo: Pictured left to right: Front – Earl Blagg, Antonio Chaverria, Jennifer Ray, Sharon Stripland and Yesica Munguia. Back –Allan Hubbard, Chuck Burton, and Brad Duncan
Pictured left to right: Front – Hannah Cunningham, Caroline Gillem, Mary Gibbons, Emma Cheatwood, Gabby Kittrell, and Audrey Del Toro. Back – Eli Allen, Akshay Bacharanianda, Crystal Henry, Chris Vaughn, Jennifer Ray, Lila Severson, Clara Gibbs, and Kristen Cunningham.
