Service clubs across Knox County are being recruited for the annual Friendly Challenge, a fundraising push tied to the 45th Food For The Hungry Campaign. Organizers have set a $345,000 goal, saying the money assists Knox County residents who face hunger during the holidays and throughout the year.
According to the campaign, donations stretch further through the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, where every dollar is described as delivering $4.56 in purchasing power. Tanner Cooper-Risser, Food For The Hungry's annual drive and community relations director, said the challenge offers clubs a way to make a direct difference for local families, particularly during a holiday season that is difficult for many.
Collection opens at the FFTH kick-off on Friday, Nov. 6, and closes Friday, Dec. 4. Clubs are asked to deliver funds in an envelope marked with the organization's name and identified as intended for Food For The Hungry; the drop-off point is WRP CPAs, 1684 Venture Drive, Suite B.
Every club that takes part will be acknowledged during the Dec. 11 live broadcast, and the club bringing in the most money may send a representative to be featured on that broadcast at the Memorial Building in Mount Vernon. The campaign frames the challenge as a way for clubs to build camaraderie while supporting neighbors.