"To help any way I can:" Packers Andrew Quarless encouraging folks to help "Defeat Hunger!"

BROWN DEER (WITI) -- With the last name "Pack," it's no surprise Michelle Pack and her 10-month old baby boy Samuel love the green and gold. When they heard tight end Andrew Quarless would be visiting the Brown Deer Walmart store on Tuesday, January 13th -- they were on their way!

"Probably the biggest football fan you could ever meet. He`s so excited and he thinks 'go Pack go' is for him! (Andrew Quarless) is a great player, and we love watching him score touchdowns," Michelle Pack said.

Along with signing autographs, Quarless worked to spread an important message as he takes part in the "Defeat Hunger Bowl" food drive.

"Hunger is something that definitely hurts America and we`re just trying to help that any way I can," Quarless said.

Quarless is encouraging all of his fans to donate non-perishable food items in collection boxes at 91 Walmart and 12 Sam's Club locations in Wisconsin, which will benefit Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin food banks.

"In the month of January this is a really important time for us because a lot of donations, particularly food donations dwindle after the holiday season," Feeding American Eastern Wisconsin Communications Manager Gina Styer said.

Pre-packaged bags with food are also available to buy and donate for just $5.

Quarless says he's touched by all the Packers backers showing up to support his team and a cause dear to his heart.

"The fans are great. I think the best fans in the whole world if you ask me. Cheeseheads, what more could you ask for?" Quarless said.

No matter what happens on Sunday, when the Packers face the Seahawks in Seattle in the NFC Championship game, giving back is a win for everyone.

The Defeat Hunger Bowl runs through Super Bowl Sunday on February 1st.

Walmart officials hope to raise 100,000 pounds of food throughout the effort.

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