AUBURN – In observance of National Hunger Awareness Day on June 6, the Gray/New Gloucester PTSA teamed with Good Shepherd Food-Bank to “Fill the Bus and Feed the Hungry.” School children from Russell, Memorial, Dunn and the middle and high schools joined and donated more than 2,100 pounds of food for the food bank.

Pat Maxwell drove the busload of food to the food bank on June 7. The official weight of food came in at 2,196 pounds, translating to more than $3,300 (retail) worth of groceries.

Good Shepherd Food-Bank spokeswoman JoAn Chartier said, “We appreciate your efforts at SAD 15 in teaching your students lifelong lessons of the importance of helping others in need. This will certainly make a difference in the lives of many children, families and the elderly we serve.”

Good Shepherd Food-Bank is one of Maine’s largest social service organizations, providing food to more than 500 agencies statewide. “With school out for summer, we face new challenges,” said Chartier, “Maine has more than 69,000 kids that qualify for free or reduced lunches at school. During summer months, many agencies report longer lines and more children needing help. Sadly, many still go without. We are grateful for the collaborative efforts of so many who helped make this a successful and meaningful event.”

For more ways to help, visit www.gsfb.org.