The "Strike Out Hunger" event was aimed at raising awareness about food insecurity
HAMILTON -- More than 500 volunteers spent Tuesday packing food for hundreds of children who would otherwise go hungry when school's out in the summer.
The second annual "Strike Out Hunger" event -- a partnership between the United Way of Greater Mercer County and Grounds for Sculpture -- is aimed at raising awareness about the problem of hunger among children.
Some students who rely on free or reduced-priced meals during the school year miss out on meals over the summer, they say.
"As we come together, we bring attention to this serious issue and continue the dialogue that will bring real change to the community," said Herb Klein, CEO of United Way of Greater Mercer County. "In order to have thriving communities, we need to have healthy, thriving families."
Organizers hoped to make 100,000 meals. Last year, volunteers provided three central New Jersey food banks with 75,000 servings or 9,375 bags of oatmeal.
Families needing to find a meal site can call 1-866-3-HUNGRY or visit whyhunger.org/findfood.
Cristina Rojas may be reached at crojas@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @CristinaRojasTT. Find NJ.com on Facebook.