URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) — The Eastern Illinois Foodbank raised a record-breaking $211,125 during its 17th annual Prom Benefit for Hunger Relief, providing more than 633,300 meals for individuals and families across its 21-county service area.
The event, presented by Martinelli’s Market, was held Feb. 28 at the I Hotel & Conference Center. Organizers said the total marks the largest amount raised in the event’s history.
At any given time, more than 143,000 people in east-central Illinois face food insecurity. In the past year, pantries within the Foodbank’s network have served a historic number of neighbors, including more than four times as many children this winter compared with last summer.
Luke Esteppe of Illinois American Water and Morgan Stone of Michelle’s Bridal & Tuxedo were named Prom King and Queen after leading individual fundraising efforts. This year’s Harrington Law Prom Court collectively raised more than $105,265 to support hunger relief efforts.
Founded in 2008, the Prom Benefit brings community members together to raise funds for local families in need. This year’s “Under the Sea” theme featured an online auction, raffle prizes, food and drinks, dancing and the crowning of the Prom Court.
Eastern Illinois Foodbank, established in 1983, distributes food to nearly 200 partner agencies and programs and provides meals to more than 1.5 million people annually. The organization is a member of Feeding America and Feeding Illinois.
More information about programs, upcoming mobile pantry sites and ways to give is available on the organization’s website: https://www.eifoodbank.org.