With more than 40 days of triple-digit heat in Oklahoma, it takes a special event to get pork producers off their farms.
On August 4, more than 20 Oklahoma pork producers supported the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma by volunteering at Rock 'n Box.
Rock 'n Box volunteer night happens every Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Regional Food Bank's Volunteer Center, This volunteer night is about helping Oklahomans while having some fun.
"As pork producers, our job is to feed the world and it is sad to think of how many people go hungry right here in Oklahoma," said Bill Barnes, OPC president and pork producer from Hennessey, Okla. "Helping get this food ready to go out to our fellow Oklahomans in need is just a small way we can show our commitment to this state."
During Rock 'n Box, 22,696 pounds of food was prepared for distribution. The pork producers, who came from all over the state, were joined by volunteers from the community.
"This was a really fun event" said Tina Falcon, pork producer from Tecumseh. "I am so glad that this food will give parents in Oklahoma peace of mind about feeding their kids."
Last fiscal year, thousands of volunteers donated more than 85,000 hours of service, saving the Regional Food Bank more than $1 million in labor.
"Volunteers are the lifeblood of this organization," said Rodney Bivens, executive director of the Regional Food Bank. "Without them, we can't get food to those who need it. We want to thank the pork producers for their continued support in the fight against hunger."