OBI & Panthers Tackle Hunger Together

Raleigh, North Carolina -- Steady rainfall and cool temperatures did not deter hundreds of adults and children living in poverty from coming to 'Tackle Hunger 2002' on November 12th. See how Operation Blessing's Hunger Strike Force and its NFL partner, the Carolina Panthers tackled hunger for the sixth time together!

It had been an exciting afternoon in The Boys and Girls Club building. The Hunger Strike Force had delivered a load of food weighing in at 40,200 pounds! Over 100 volunteers representing groups including local high schools, North Carolina State University and United Way worked hard filling and giving 1,400 bags of groceries to guests. Each adult was gifted one bag of non-perishable items (included cereal, soup, canned vegetables, pasta and drinks) and one bag of perishable items (potatoes, onions, salad and ham).

In addition, young guests were entertained by Carolina Panthers' mascot Sir Purr and received a goodie bags containing a calendar, t-shirt, football cards, team photos, candy, a video and notebook. Soon 4:30 came and the last of those in line were served. As volunteers and staff began to clean up what was left on the basketball court, the doors were shut.

Looking out the door, OBI's Joshua Davis saw an extended family of six women and two children standing in the rain. They were disheartened to have missed the event. He went to see what could be done for these guests. Soon each of the adults had two grocery bags of perishable items! "Their faces lit up!", exclaimed Joshua. The additional leftover groceries were sent to the Salvation Army in Charlotte for distribution throughout their network.

As Carolina Panthers' community relations coordinator, Crystal Danham commented about the day's activities. "Reaching out is important this time of year. Carolina Panthers' mission is to give back to the community. She continued, "Let Operation Blessing partners know the Carolina Panthers are proud and pleased with this five-year partnership and hopes it will continue year after year."

You too can help Operation Blessing tackle hunger!