MENOMONIE, Wi. — In Wisconsin, the Menomonie Police Department is allowing citizens to pay their parking ticket fines by donating canned foods to local food banks.

Drivers with standard parking violations, like an expired meter, can bring in a nonperishable food item and get up-to $2 off of their fine.

They can also donate multiple items and pay off fines, no matter how old the ticket is. Organizers say people have been very supportive of the program.

Brenna Long Menomonie Pd Crime Prevention Specialist: “People are all of a sudden way more excited to pay their parking tickets. “Cause they can feel like they’re helping people out this holiday season and contributing to a need that’s within our community.”

The “Food for Fines” program runs until December 30th.

The department has collected nearly $200 worth of donations. All of the food will be sent to stepping stones, a food pantry and shelter in Menomonie.