Thousands help Stomp Out Hunger at Summerfest 2013



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- A smorgasbord of baskets filled with food took over the streets outside Summerfest in an effort to fill the bellies of people in need.

"I brought some chicken noodle soup, and some pears, and some corn," said Andrea Gonzalez as she donated food.

Once again this year FOX6 teamed up with the Hunger Task Force and Johnson Controls to Stomp Out Hunger.

From noon until 3 p.m., everyone that brought 3 non-perishable food items, would get into the Big Gig on Opening Day for free.

"This is something that we can all engage in, so a community giving back to the community. What a great way for all of us to put our arms around each other. It's a very simple thing to do but makes a huge impact," says Johnson Controls Director of Global Relations Mary Dowell.

There is a great need for food, especially this time of year when kids are on summer break.

"Childhood hunger is at its highest in the summer particularly in the month of August. We're going to be serving between 40,000 - 50,000 people and so people coming here today at Summerfest people have donated food to help the hungry and especially kids," says Hunger Task Force Executive Director Sherrie Tussler.

The line of people who showed up went on for blocks, as these people want to do their part to Stomp Out Hunger.

"It`s always good when you receive things to give back. It`s always good, you get more blessings in return," says Marlene Thompson after donating food.

"Most people have had issues in their life at one time or another that they've had to deal with and you've got to make it through day-to-day. We've got to help each other out," says David McKenzie who has participated in Stomp Out Hunger every year.

If you were unable to donate food Wednesday's afternoon, The Hunger Task Force is always looking for help. For more information on how to donate, visit hungertaskforce.org.