“In our culture, food is love,” said Jean Toth, executive director of Northeast Louisiana (NELA) Food Bank, as she welcomed everyone to the fourth annual Rock N Box. 90’s music rang out as volunteers packed lunches, filled boxes and bagged sweet potatoes, all doing their part in the fight to end hunger.
The NELA Food Bank is one of several community-driven programs that are part of the larger organization called, Feeding America.
In NELA alone, one in five people struggle with hunger. However, with the help of only 11 staff members and community volunteers, 12 parishes in the NELA area can get food assistance from the food bank.
“The goal of the Rock n Box event was to have an opportunity for volunteers to come help in the evening, since they may not be able to come during our operating hours due to their work schedules,” Toth said.
Over 80 volunteers came out to show their love for the community. Stations were set up in different areas of the food bank for the volunteers to work at as they listened to live music provided by Hidden Tracks, a local 90’s alt-rock tribute act.
Heath Work sang amazing on vocals, Keith Adams rocked out on guitar, Tracy Rainwater was cool on bass and James Buckley took it away on drums. The band kept volunteers motivated and even joined in to help at one point. More information on the band can be found at their Facebook page, or you can catch them rocking out at local bars, including the Brass Monkey Pub & Patio and Enoch’s Irish Pub & Cafe.
Sarah Hoffman, external communications officer for the NELA Food Bank, said that the idea to combine live music and volunteer work came from a coworker seeing the same kind of event being done at another Feeding America food bank. Community members get to perform a good deed, while enjoying songs like “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana and “Keep ‘Em Separated” by the Offspring.
Pictures were placed throughout the food bank. Some had testimonies from residents who directly benefit from the program and others included facts about the fight against hunger.
Every Friday, the food bank provides 800 “backpacks” to students. This initiative ensures that the students get nutritional lunches and the best opportunities to learn.
Toth was adamant about staying hydrated while packing and moving boxes. Ice chests filled with Gatorades and waters could be found in every direction.
Other activities included: a selfie booth with fun props, a silent auction and a raffle contest, where the prize was a “Food is Love” t-shirt.
The Food Bank keeps busy, with its next event being held this Thursday from 5-7p.m. at the Whataburger on Louisville Ave. During Oh Whatanight, 20 percent of all sales will go to the NELA Food Bank. There will also be free face paintings and a balloon artist! For more information on how to donate or get involved with future events, go to foodbanknela.org.