'Hauling Away Hunger' at Citizens Bank Park

PHILADELPHIA - December 13, 2013

The convoy of trucks circled parking lot P and Citizens Bank Park hauling food donated by 20 partners and sponsors including 6abc.

"We're looking at 81,000 pounds coming in, and it couldn't come at a better time," said Bill Clark, Philabundance President.

One-by-one 48 Toyota Tundras unloaded their food haul onto the forklift pallet.

More than 35 tons of food, including cornbread, rice, peas, tuna, and peanut butter, will become meals for a growing number of hungry residents in the Delaware Valley.

"It is what needs to be done, but this goes on another 51 weeks a year," said Paul Muller, President of Tri-State Toyota. "What we're trying to get across is these people need help all year long, not just at Christmas."

Toyota has been donating for seven years and has tripled its offering this year.

The Phillie Phanatic offered his support; so did Swoop, the Eagles' mascot and Bluewinkle, from the Wilmington Blue Rocks.

Friday's donation will last into the holiday season.

"A contribution like this really makes me sleep a lot better," said Clark.

But Philabundance needs more people to help keep the giving going.

"We're really concerned about how long our inventory will last as we enter into the New Year," he said.

If you'd like to help Philabundance "Haul away Hunger" visit http://www.philabundance.org/

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