MONTEBELLO – Joining forces with its community partners, the Montebello Unified School District kicked off the eighth annual “War on Hunger” food drive on Oct. 12 at Eastmont Intermediate School to assist local families in need.

Since its inception in 2009, the “War on Hunger” food drive has generated approximately 50,000 pounds of food to help several thousand students and families. The bar has been set high, and Montebello Unified students, teachers, staff, community members and sponsors are carrying on their tradition of working together to support the project’s goal of at least another 50,000 pounds.

With Eastmont Intermediate Principal Cecilia Ramirez serving as master of ceremonies, MUSD’s month-of-giving kick-off event featured speakers from the District and its partners from Heart of Compassion and the Montebello Council Parent Teacher Association.

The event also included a Bell Gardens Intermediate student dance performance under the direction of teacher Jesse Mendoza, student mariachis and MUSD students showing their support for the project through a student video played during the event showcasing the need for local food drives.

“We are making great strides in the ‘War on Hunger,’ and we always hope this annual event speaks to Montebello Unified’s dedication in providing for all students in every situation,” Board President Benjamin Cardenas said. “It makes me proud to see the work the District is able to do with such esteemed partners and we hope students feel encouraged and motivated to help give back to the community as well.”

As part of its partnership with the District, Camino Federal Credit Union is asking its employees and members to contribute to the “War on Hunger” campaign. Those interested can make a pledge at teller windows or drop off canned goods at the Camino main branch, 520 N. Taylor Ave., Montebello, through Nov. 4.

Students and staff will be able to donate non-perishable food items or funds to help local families at all MUSD schools. The community may donate at the District Office, 123 S. Montebello Blvd., Montebello.

Families may pick up food items at the Heart of Compassion Distribution Center, 600 S. Maple Ave., Montebello, or contact District homeless liaison Rose Hernandez at 323-887-2133.

PHOTO CAPTION

101216_MUSD_HUNGER: Montebello Unified students and District and school administrators joined forces with its community partners, pictured here, to kick off the seventh annual “War on Hunger” food drive on Oct. 12 at Eastmont Intermediate School to assist local families in need.