Kent businesses are banding together to fight hunger on Thanksgiving during Torklift Central’s fourth annual Kent Turkey Challenge.
So far 66 businesses competing in the challenge have gathered more than $8,000 and 2,200 pounds of food for the Kent Food Bank. The goal of the challenge is to reach $17,000 and 4,000 pounds of food, according to a Torklift Central media release.
The drive started in early October and ends Nov. 20.
Safeway, 210 Washington Ave. S., is featuring two Turkey Challenge donation boxes in its store. The store is extending a special discount on all turkey purchases to the Kent Food Bank at the conclusion of the Challenge.
“We like to be involved with the community and help those less fortunate during the holiday season,” said Tim May, Safeway manager. “If everyone pitches in, it can really make a difference.”
With the Seattle/Tacoma KOA supporting the challenge, travelers from across the nation can now help fight hunger during their stay at the Kent campground. Visitors are greeted with a Turkey Challenge donation box and a thermostat graph that tracks the KOA’s goals.
“We put out a note to the staff and to the campers at the campground and everyone jumped right in to help the community,” said Karen Rosier, general manager at KOA. “It also helps that some of us are very competitive.”
Monetary contributions at Eberle Vivian now top $1,600. Management matches all funds donated by their employees and customers. The company has already raised enough money to purchase over 160 turkeys for donation to the food bank.
Inspired by a televised proclamation announcing the Challenge by Mayor Suzette Cooke, Great American Casino in Kent, is participating and matching all monetary donations made at their business.
“Great American is proud to be a part of the Torklift Turkey Challenge and help out our local community,” said general manager Shannon Younker. “This is our first year and we are very excited to be a partner for such a great cause. We hope our contributions can help make local families have a brighter happier holiday.”
For more information, go to torkliftcentral.com/2014-kent-turkey-challenge/.
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