Redskins wide receiver, Anthony Armstrong, helped pack and distribute food to families at FedEx field.

MARYLAND – It wasn't a football game that brought out players and nearly 3,500 families to FedEx Field, home of the NFL's Washington Redskins.

Instead, players suited up to help distribute food to families in need as part of the annual Harvest Feast with Operation Blessing. The players were joined by some 300 volunteers from groups such as Wachovia, Ryan Homes, FedEx and more.

“We’ve seen firsthand the struggles and financial hardships families have gone through this year, so it’s great that we can give back,” said Wachovia volunteer Susan Traver.

NFL players and volunteers helped hand out bags full of non-perishable canned goods, boxed foods, produce and even a whole turkey to families.

Together, the events helped bring holiday meals and relief to more than 6,000 families in need.

“It’s been a tough year so this is really going to help,” said Lashawnda, who was one of the first families in line.

Further south in Florida, players from the Jacksonville Jaguars were on hand to give away food to an estimated 2,500 families. In both locations, children also received special gift bags filled with goodies and toys.

According to Britni Capps, Director of Procurement for Operation Blessing, both events are making a significant impact for families during the holiday season.

Volunteers in Jacksonville help bag food to give to families.

“This is huge – with unemployment over 10 percent across the nation and when many people are losing their jobs, this food is a huge supplement to their families during this time of year,” she said.

Together, OBI and the NFL have more than 10 years of teamwork under their belts—having distributed to date more than 800,000 pounds of food to help 25,000 families in need.

Help “tackle” hunger! Click here to give a gift that will equal ten times the relief for families in need!

HOW YOU CAN HELP
Every day, Operation Blessing brings nutritious food and essential supplies to thousands facing hunger and poverty in America and around the world. With your help, we can continue to impact lives and give hope to those who need it most. Consider making an online donation today.

 

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