CLEVELAND — 3News' Mike Polk Jr. was a celebrity guest in the "Supermarket Challenge" Tuesday morning to mark the official kickoff of Harvest for Hunger.
Polk was partnered up with Slider the mascot in a challenge to see who could pack the best bag of groceries.
Mascots from other Cleveland sports teams also joined in on the fun.
"Harvest for Hunger is a joint effort of our four area food banks to raise money and food to fight hunger in 21 Northeast and North Central Ohio counties," organizers explain.
Foodbank officials say they serve 350,000 people annually -- 50 percent of which are children and seniors. Every $1 donation can help provide up to four meals.
The most-needed food donations are:
- Beans (canned or dried)
- Peanut butter
- Boxed or canned entrees
- Pasta sauce
- 100% juice
- Cereal (hot or cold)
- Canned protein (like tuna, chicken)
- Whole grain rice or pasta
- Canned fruits and veggies
"Those turning to food programs are making touch choices and trade-offs to keep food on the table," organizers say. "64 percent report choosing between paying for food and paying for utilities."
Participating supermarket sponsors are Giant Eagle, Heinen’s, Dave’s Markets, Fishers Foods and Buehler’s Fresh Foods. Shoppers can make monetary donations of $1, $5 or $10 directly on their bill at the register to support Harvest for Hunger.
3News is also a media sponsor of Harvest for Hunger.
You can watch the entire unedited grocery battle below: