The Brookings School District proudly partnered with the Brookings Area United Way Basic Needs Task Force for a districtwide “Fill the Bus” food and personal care drive. The collaboration brought schools, families, and community members together in a powerful show of support for neighbors in need.
Throughout the campaign, BSD coordinated a traveling collection effort, encouraging the community to follow the “Big Red Bus” The bus visited a different school or district location each day, making it easy for families and community members to contribute. With “Follow the Bobcats” displayed on the back, the bus became a moving invitation to join the effort. Student groups helped staff the bus before and after school, while each site welcomed community drop-offs throughout the day.
The weeklong route included:
• Nov. 17 – District Administration Office
• Nov. 18 – Hillcrest Elementary
• Nov. 19 – Mickelson Middle School
• Nov. 20 – Dakota Prairie Elementary
• Nov. 21 – Brookings High School
• Nov. 24 – Camelot Intermediate School
• Nov. 25 – Medary Elementary
• Nov. 26 – District Administration Office
Each stop brought something special. Schools welcomed guests such as the Brookings Fire Department, Bobby the Bobcat, and Rizzo the dog, adding excitement and school spirit to the drive. Students stepped up in meaningful ways by helping greet donors, organizing items, and spreading enthusiasm for the cause.
On Wednesday, November 26, all collected items were delivered to the Brookings Area United Way. There, the Basic Needs Task Force and school staff worked together to sort donations for distribution to community partners. In total, the drive gathered an outstanding 610 personal care items and 2,687 food items, all destined to support families across Brookings County.
This initiative served as a powerful reminder of what it means to be Bobcat Strong and Bobcat Proud. The Brookings School District extends heartfelt thanks to every donor, every school, our student leaders and groups, our transportation team, and all who worked behind the scenes to make this effort a success.
Staff & Students have the bus loaded to make the final drop at Brookings Area United Way.
BSD & BAUW staff sorting donations.
It took many hands to help load the bus.
The Fire Department came out to help and were one of our many surprise guests. 
Always fun to see Bobby the Bobcat and our student leaders.
Our staff really got into the fun.
Our "Big Red Bus" was parked outside of each school and admin building for eight days.
Rizzo the dog encouraging donations.
"Follow the Bobcats" to "Fill the Bus"!
