Rivalry with a Cause: Clinton vs. Laurens Showdown Kicks Off with Canned Food Drive

On Friday, August 30th, the fiercest football rivalries in Laurens County will take on a new meaning as the Clinton Red Devils host the Laurens Raiders at Wilder Stadium. The game, a highlight of the season, will serve as the backdrop for a crucial community initiative—a canned food drive to support the Laurens County Hunger Coalition.

Fans of both teams are encouraged to bring canned goods and non-perishable food items to the game. Collection bins will be stationed at the gate, where attendees can drop their donations into their team’s bin. The friendly competition on the field will be mirrored by this off-field effort, with each team’s supporters striving to contribute the most towards fighting hunger in their community.

Pastor Gray Stallworth, the organizer of the drive and founder of the Laurens County Hunger Coalition in May of this year, emphasized the importance of this initiative. “This rivalry game is a perfect opportunity to bring our community together for a greater cause. By contributing to the food drive, we’re not just supporting our team—we’re supporting our neighbors in need.”

All collected food will be distributed through the Laurens County Hunger Coalition to various participating agencies, including the City of Clinton, Christ Central Ministries in Joanna/Clinton, Queen B’s Charities Community Outreach, SC Empowerment Centre, United Ministries of Clinton, the Food Bank at First United Methodist Church in Laurens, and the Food Pantry at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Laurens.

Supporting agencies for the drive include the SC Department of Public Health and Thornwell, reflecting the wide-ranging community effort to combat food insecurity in Laurens County.

This initiative not only highlights the spirit of competition but also the spirit of giving that defines Laurens County. Whether you’re cheering for Clinton or Laurens, your support for the canned food drive will make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.