OBI teamed up with the Washington Redskins and the Jacksonville Jaguars to distribute 237,000 pounds of food to families in need.

WASHINGTON D.C. – It wasn't a football game that brought out players and an estimated 3,500 families to FedEx Field, home of the NFL's Washington Redskins.

Instead, players suited up to help distribute food to families in need as part of the annual Harvest Feast with Operation Blessing. The players were joined by more than 300 volunteers from groups such as Wachovia, Ryan Homes, Chiquita and more.

"It was a tremendous blessing to be able to bring relief and joy to so many families in need this holiday season, especially in a year where we all have experienced the challenge of a struggling economy," said Kathryn Blevins, OBI's procurement account manager.

Families received food bags filled with dry goods, frozen turkeys, and fresh fruit and salads from corporate partners Chiquita and Fresh Express.

In addition, more than 1,500 women received hygiene items and toiletries and 1,500 children got a bag with toys, candy and books.         

"It's nice to be able to give back to the people who are really in need," said Redskins player, Malcolm Kelly, who helped pass out food. "When we give them the food, you can see their faces light up."

Families received food bags filled with dry goods, frozen turkeys, and fresh fruit and salads from corporate partners Chiquita and Fresh Express.

Further south, OBI and players from the Jacksonville Jaguars hosted another food distribution in Jacksonville, Fla., for an estimated 2,500 families in need.

Between the D.C. and Florida events, NFL team members and volunteers distributed more than 214,000 pounds of food and product, impacting 32,500 people.

OBI first teamed up with the NFL after hearing about Green Bay Packer, Reggie White's efforts in raising goods to stock local food banks. By 1998, OBI had partnered with the Carolina Panthers, and has continued to add more teams.

"This gives the players and other businesses the opportunity to give back in their own communities," said Pam Erickson, vice president of procurement and corporate relations at Operation Blessing. "We want to be an advocate for those in need and this is an opportunity to make a difference."

In the spring, OBI will once again join the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals to host another food distribution event called, Two Teams, One Goal. Last year, OBI gave out 98,000 pounds of food at the spring event.

HOW YOU CAN HELP
Every day, the fleet of Hunger Strike Force trucks are on the road, delivering nutritious food and essential supplies to thousands facing hunger and poverty. With your help, we can continue to impact lives and give hope to those who need it most. Consider making an online donation today.

 

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