Kentucky State Police Post 3 will collect nonperishable food items for needy families from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday at Kroger on Campbell Lane, according to a news release from state police.

As part of the “Cram the Cruiser” drive that began last month, state police will accept canned goods and other nonperishable items. The food will be distributed to local food banks and churches, according to Trooper Jonathan Biven, spokesman for KSP Post 3 in Bowling Green.

“This time of year, (food banks) run a little short, so we like to help them any way we can,” Biven said today.

The state police used to donate to individual families, but last year began donating to food banks and churches. By giving the food to those organizations, Biven said, the state police felt they could get more food to more people.

“We try to impact as many needy families as we can,” Biven said.

Last year, state police collected 3,100 pounds of nonperishable food. 

If anyone who wishes to donate cannot make the trip Wednesday to Kroger on Campbell Lane, a cruiser will sit on Post 3’s front lawn, at 3119 Nashville Road, until Friday to collect donations.