Missoula’s 2023 Guerrilla Turkey Drive Was a Success

There was a lot of winning happening in Missoula this past weekend. We are just kicking off the season of giving and were are honored to be part of a community that helps each other. The 29th Annual Guerrilla Turkey Drive from Townsquare Media wrapped up last Friday. We want to thank our sponsors for making this possible. TrailWest Bank, Bitterroot Shedz, Decker Truck Line, and KPAX TV for being a part of this wonderful event. We also want to give a special shoutout to Missoula Electric Cooperative, not only are they a valued sponsor, but they also donated over 5,000 lbs. of turkeys this year to our drive.

29 Years Missoulian's Helping Our Community

For 29 years we have been helping to provide area food banks with turkeys for their clients for Thanksgiving. Again this year we are helping out:

• Missoula Food Bank
• Mineral County Food Bank
• Darby Bread Box
• Pantry Partners in Stevensville
• Haven House in Hamilton
• Missoula Head Start Program

The Numbers Are In

This year we collected over 780 turkeys and over $1,100 in cash and checks for these organizations. The numbers were a bit down from what we have seen the past few years. We were still able to help multiple agencies, make their goals. We couldn't do it without all of the community support we get. From a person brining in one bird, to some businesses that bring in 100 or more. Mike and the crew from the Reno Bar and Casino in East Missoula, Alfredo from El Cazador, Lynore from Baer Concrete and Excavation. I believe this may have also been of the first years we have gotten a donation from the Governor's Office. Thank you to Governor Gianforte for your donation.  All of the donations for the Missoula Food bank went toward the "Can The Cats" food drive. This year we also added in another twist to the competition with the "Brawl of the Wild Lawyer Challenge". Five local law firms competed to see who could raise the most money and food, with a trophy up for grabs.

Last year the Griz lost both on the field and in the "Can the Cats" food drive last year. This year both the game and the food drive competition had different outcomes. The University of Montana Griz football team claimed the Big Sky Championship with a 37-7 win over the Montana State Bobcats. Missoula has also defeated Bozeman in the annual food drive.

The Season of Giving Will Continue with "KYSSMAS for Kids"

Continue to listen as the season of giving continues. Coming up on Friday December 8th we will be raising money with our annual "KYSSMAS for Kids" charity auction. With proceeds going to help take underprivileged children shopping for the holiday. Thanks to everyone who helped with our turkey drive. We'll see you again next year for the 30th Annual Townsquare Media Guerrilla Turkey Drive.