Charles Aris, Davenport & Co and BackPack Beginnings to host seventh annual Bust the Bus food drive in Greensboro

Charles Aris and BackPack Beginnings will host the seventh annual Bust the Bus food drive and fundraiser on June 11 in Greensboro, bringing the community together to combat food insecurity across the Piedmont Triad.

Held in partnership with Charles Aris Inc., BackPack Beginnings, the Greensboro Grasshoppers and Davenport & Company LLC, the event will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. during the Grasshoppers’ home game against the Wilmington Blue Rocks at First National Bank Field.

“Guided by our cause to change lives, transform businesses and enrich communities, we are honored to take part in an initiative that creates meaningful local impact,” said Charles Aris CEO Chad Oakley and Charles Aris COO Allen Oakley in a joint statement.

Last year’s event raised nearly $37,000 and collected almost 1,000 pounds of food. Organizers aim to build on that momentum this year as food insecurity continues to affect families throughout the area.

“It has been truly inspiring to witness a humble dining room idea grow into the transformative community pillar it has become, addressing food and resource insecurity among local families,” said Cecelia Anderson, first vice president of Davenport & Company LLC.

Attendees are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items or make monetary donations outside the Bellemeade Street entrance of the stadium. Those who donate at least five canned goods or $10 will have the opportunity to spin a prize wheel and win Babe’s Bucks, gift cards and other items.

All donations collected during the event will support BackPack Beginnings’ efforts to provide meals, basic necessities and other essential resources to children and families in need across the region.

“This event reflects the strength of our community and what can be accomplished when we come together to support local children and families,” said Parker White, founder and executive director of BackPack Beginnings. “Each contribution helps provide essential resources that allow kids to learn, grow and succeed.”

Additional sponsors include Genuity Concepts, Carter Bank, Cone Health Foundation, United Healthcare, Thacker & Brooks and the P.O.W.E.R. of Play Foundation.

To learn more about Bust the Bus and how you can help, visit: https://backpackbeginnings.org/event/bust-the-bus-with-us-4/