By John Rohlf, The Message assistant editor
The ninth annual Friday Knights Hunger Bowl raised the most single year amount in the history of the initiative.
St. Vincent de Paul Evansville Executive Director Ashley Newell confirmed in an email that as of Sept. 30, a total of $38,465 had been raised for the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry. This includes $3,300 during the Sept. 12 football game between Reitz Memorial and Mater Dei high schools at Enlow Field in Evansville. Reitz Memorial earned a 28-21 overtime win in the game.
Over the past nine years, around $170,000 has been raised for the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry. Newell said on behalf of St. Vincent de Paul, she extended their heartfelt thanks to the Knights of Columbus “for their steadfast leadership” to make the Hunger Bowl such a success each year. The Knights’ commitment ensures that families in the community never face hunger alone, Newell said.
“We also want to recognize Memorial High School and Mater Dei High School,” she said in the email. “Their energy, enthusiasm and school spirit are the heartbeat of the event. The students, coaches and families remind us what it looks like when competition is rooted in compassion.”
She also thanked the generous donors who gave time, treasure or talent. She said the check represents more than dollars. It represents meals on tables, hope in homes and dignity to our neighbors in need.
“Thank you again to the Knights of Columbus, Memorial, Mater Dei and all who support the Hunger Bowl,” she said. “Together, we are proving that when our community comes together, hunger doesn’t stand a chance.”