The Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank is hosting a new fundraising event at the Ohio Christmas Factory in Canton on Dec. 4. The Merry Meals Mixer is a unique opportunity for community members to support the Foodbank while also celebrating the holiday season. Learn more and purchase tickets at merrymealsmixer.com.
Guests will be transported to a winter wonderland at the Ohio Christmas Factory. With more than 50,000 square feet of holiday décor, Christmas lights, immersive illusions, Santa’s workshop and more, attendees will delight in all the sights and sounds of the season.
Samples of the region's finest culinary delights and desserts from more than a dozen local purveyors will be available for guests to enjoy. A drink passport can be purchased and includes signature cocktail samples at four different festive-themed bars.
During the strolling experience, attendees can bid on premium silent auction items and experiences, and beautifully decorated holiday trees and wreaths. Local companies and organizations decorated the artificial greenery in a variety of themes and donated them for the event.
“Attending the Merry Meals Mixer is a simple and fun way to support your Foodbank and our neighbors struggling with hunger,” said Dan Flowers, Foodbank president and CEO. “The holiday season is meant to be a magical time, but for some of our neighbors, it can be a stressful time that exacerbates hardships. Our food distribution is up 18% compared to last year – it’s evident that people in our community are struggling. Supporting the Foodbank’s Holiday Campaign and this new event will make a difference in our community. Every dollar donated helps provide enough food for three meals. We hope to see you there.”
General admission, priced at $60, includes access to the Ohio Christmas Factory and its holiday amusements, enjoyment of the many food samplings and the opportunity to bid on the various silent auction items, trees and wreaths.
VIP admission, priced at $100, includes early access to the venue and preferred parking, a signature festive cocktail, first in-person viewing opportunities of auction items, a souvenir cup and an exclusive Foodbank mission moment with Flowers.
The $15 drink passport can be added to any ticket and can be purchased in advance or on Dec. 4.
Title sponsors of the event include Atlantic Food Distributors and MCTV.
The Foodbank hopes community members will support local hunger relief this holiday season. Though the season is traditionally a time for celebrations centered around the dining table, for many families in the Foodbank’s region, that could be difficult this year. Support from the community is vital to the Foodbank’s ability to serve neighbors struggling with food insecurity.
To learn more about the Merry Meals Mixer and to purchase tickets, visit merrymealsmixer.com or contact the Foodbank at 330.535.6900.
To search available food programs in the Foodbank’s network, visit akroncantonfoodbank.org/find-help.