MCC Hunger Games Score Big for Local Food Pantries
Montcalm Community College (MCC) proved once again that teamwork extends far beyond the basketball court. On January 24, MCC hosted its annual Hunger Games event during the men’s and women’s basketball games, bringing students, fans, and community members together to support local food pantries across Montcalm & Ionia counties.
The Hunger Games is a friendly competition among colleges designed to raise both funds and food donations for local pantries. Admission to the games was free with a food or monetary donation, making it easy for everyone to take part and give back. All contributions raised during the event were donated directly to area food pantries and MCC’s on-campus food pantry, helping ensure neighbors in need have access to nutritious food.
Thanks to the generosity of attendees, MCC raised $1,500 during the games. This year, United Way of Greater Central Michigan was proud to join the effort as a partner—doubling the impact of those donations by matching the first $1,000 raised. With the match, the total impact of the event grew to $2,500 for local food pantries.
Those funds were evenly distributed among five local food pantries:
Belding Food Pantry
Carson City Community Food Pantry
Have Mercy’s Bread of Life Food Pantry
Hope’s Food Pantry
M-46 Tabernacle Family Ministries Food Pantry
Together, these organizations play a critical role in supporting individuals and families facing food insecurity throughout the county.
“We were proud to come alongside MCC’s Hunger Games initiative for the first time this year,” said Annie Sanders, President & CEO of United Way of Greater Central Michigan. “We love partnering with incredible efforts like this that are already happening in our communities. When we work together, we can make an even greater impact for our neighbors who need it most.”
The MCC Hunger Games is a powerful example of how community partnerships, generosity, and a little friendly competition can come together to create real, lasting change. United Way of Greater Central Michigan is grateful to MCC, the student-athletes, and everyone who donated to help fight hunger right here at home.
