The Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank hosted the second annual Merry Meals Mixer fundraising event tonight. More than 500 guests strolled through the Ohio Christmas Factory, showing their support for local hunger relief, helping to raise funds to provide enough food for nearly 413,000 meals.
“We’re incredibly thankful for the community’s support these past few months,” said Dan Flowers, Foodbank president and CEO. “That generosity has allowed us to meet the surge in need brought on by the government shutdown. We’ve never before seen food benefits halted for local families, but our food bank moved quickly with additional distributions and resources. We were able to do that because of this region’s unwavering support. Time and again, our community’s generosity shines brightly — and the support for this event is no exception.”
Guests delighted in the sights and sounds of the holiday season. The Ohio Christmas Factory boasts 50,000 square feet of holiday merriment, including larger-than-life décor, beloved holiday characters, Santa’s workshop and more.
Guests wandered through the unique space, enjoying signature cocktails at four festive-themed bars while sampling food and desserts from nearly two dozen local restaurants and purveyors.
The Harvest Room at RG Drage CTC, Gervasi Vineyard and Atlantic Food Distributors were a few fan favorites.
“Old Carolina Barbecue loves being a part of the Merry Meals Mixer because it represents the best of our community,” said Brooke Guiley, director of catering at Old Carolina Barbecue. “So many of our shared memories are made over food, that’s what makes this event so special!”
Beautifully decorated holiday trees and wreaths donated by local organizations were available for bid. Themes such as winter wonderland, Candy Land and LEGOs were executed to perfection.
Guests could also bid on silent auction items, including a Goodyear blimp ride, a behind-the-scenes experience at the Akron Zoo and beautiful jewelry.
Evergreen sponsors of the event include Atlantic Food Distributors and MCTV, and media partners include 1480 WHBC and Mix 94.1. North Pole sponsors include NECA IBEW Local 306 and IBEW 540.
The holiday event was part of the Foodbank’s Holiday Campaign efforts. During November and December, the organization hopes to inspire the community to support hunger relief through volunteerism, coordinating a food and funds drive, making a donation, etc. There’s still time to support the campaign by attending the Foodbank’s Selfless Elf 5k run/walk on Dec. 20 at its Main Campus in Akron. Visit SelflessElf.com to learn more and register.
For more information about the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank, visit akroncantonfoodbank.org or call 330.535.6900. To search available food programs in the Foodbank’s network, visit akroncantonfoodbank.org/find-help.