Mayor proclaims 5th Annual Kent Turkey Challenge food bank fundraiser
Published 2:30 pm Tuesday, October 27, 2015
Kent Mayor Suzette Cooke officially proclaimed the 5th Annual Kent Turkey Challenge during the City Council meeting on Oct. 20.
The proclamation identifies Oct. 5 through Nov. 20 as the Kent Turkey Challenge where the efforts of businesses and organizations are combined in a friendly competition to collect food and monetary donations for the Kent Food Bank.
“The first year of the challenge was a humble one that involved nearly 20 businesses collecting about $5,000 and 1,000 pounds of food,” said Torklift owner Jack Kay at the council meeting. “We believe that the continued support of the proclamation is very key in facilitating this opportunity by lending credibility, which has been instrumental in bringing about the 70 different Kent businesses and organizations that are now involved.”
After loss of a portion of public funding in 2011, the Kent Turkey Challenge provides the needed resources that the Kent Food Bank depends on in providing a Thanksgiving meal for community members in need.
“This year with the unified effort of businesses, organizations and participating schools, our goal is to collect $25,000 and 10,000 pounds of food donations,” Kay said.
Cumulative donations over the past four years exceed $56,500 and 16,800 pounds of food.
“A lot of times the people that rely on Kent Food Bank are hurting,” said Kay. “But to be able to provide a turkey dinner in honor, respect and generating hope for these families, it’s a tremendous honor to receive this [proclamation] and represent this. There is nothing greater than to be able to change lives and make an impact.”
In addition to the collection process, Torklift Central orchestrates the community event by providing complimentary donation boxes and materials to any business or organization wanting to participate.
Businesses still interested in participating can call Torklift Central marketing director Katie Brown at 253-720-1969 or email Katie@torkliftcentral.com.
For a list of participating businesses and groups, go to torkliftcentral.com/turkey.
