WSOY Food drive surpasses goal, raises over $800,000

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — It has been three years since the last WSOY Community Food drive in Decatur. Organizers say, the return was a huge success, surpassing the organizers' goal by raising over $800,000.

The goal was to raise $700,000; instead, the community gave back, and then some.

Major Randall Summit with the Salvation Army said this event took months of preparation, but it has ended with a success, "This community really does what they talk about. They put it into action. They really do come together. Be it a kindergarten class up to college doesn't matter. They're all just come together and do their part to help those in need."

Summit says this is his 13th location, but is thrilled with the amount raised. "Nowhere in the country does anything even come close. I've been in rural areas. I've been in multiple, multiple metropolitan areas. No one even comes close to this kind of a food drive. It's overwhelming."

Local high schools participated in the drive as well. St. Teresa student, Jonah Powell helped raise money, said about the event, "It's a big deal. We've been making it a big deal all week to, try to push the idea of it...if everyone's having fun, then it's really easy to get those donations."

The donations will be split among 17 different organizations across Decatur. Which Eric Halvorson said other cities should take notice,

"So many communities, donations are down and demand is up. So when there's a city like Decatur that comes together to put food on the table when people need it, I think watching people come out the way they have today is inspirational for us and a role model for so many different communities."

There is still a chance to donate if you can, click here to do so.