In an effort to help restock local food pantries after the holidays, Del Val students came together for the third annual Hoops for Hunger event on Feb. 12.

The basketball tournament fundraiser was an overwhelming success, uniting students and raising $3,750 to help combat local food insecurity. 

Jay Arancio, president of Strikeout Hunger New Jersey, enjoys attending the event every year.

“I think you guys really put the ‘fun’ in fundraising,” Arancio said. “I love watching it; I love to see all the people involved: the volunteers, the staff going out of their way.”

Each person involved in Hoops for Hunger has a hand in the success of the event. In order to participate in any capacity — as a player, a coach or a scorekeeper — individuals must raise $30.

Freshman participant Cecelia Fransen found that the objective of the event made the day feel more important than just basketball.

“I really enjoyed playing and decided to participate because it was for a good cause,” Fransen said. “It’s more fun when there’s a purpose.”

Arancio noted that this effort makes a huge difference for those in the Del Val area. 

“You guys are a part of a big community here of five different sending districts,” Arancio said. “You’d be amazed at how many families are dealing with food insecurity right here in our local area.”

Arancio also appreciates the timing of the event.

“Around the holidays the pantries do really well, but this is one of the driest times of the year where they don’t get enough donations for families,” Arancio said. “So, this is a great time to get an influx of money so that they can buy more canned goods and fresh foods.”

At Hoops for Hunger’s conclusion, participants walked away feeling grateful for the opportunity to give back to their community.

“It feels great,” senior participant Brooklyn Liskowacki said. “It’s great to support good causes.”