Thiel College’s Tommy Tomcat raced to fight food insecurity at Mercer Food Bank event

GREENVILLE, Pa.-- Thiel College’s mascot, Tommy the Tomcat, joined mascots from across the region Friday, Sept. 5, in the annual Mascot Race benefiting the Mercer County Food Bank. The race was part of the organization’s food drive to raise awareness and support in the fight against food insecurity.

The event coincided with Hunger Action Month, a nationwide campaign to combat hunger. Hunger affects nearly 16,000 people in Mercer County, including 4,600 children, according to Mercer County Foodbank data. Events like the Mascot Race highlighted both the need and the opportunity to provide relief for families facing food insecurity.

“Food insecurity is an issue that affects every community, including our own,” Thiel College Vice President for Communications and Marketing Richard Orr said. “We were proud to have Tommy represent Thiel College in an event that not only brought smiles but one that can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.”

Mascots included the Mahoning Valley Scrappers mascot, several area high schools, and representatives from corporate and nonprofit organizations. Adding to the atmosphere, cheerleaders from Farrell, Hickory, Sharon and Kennedy Catholic high schools rallied the crowd and showed their support.

Tommy the Tomcat, who recently celebrated 100 years as Thiel’s mascot, brought the same enthusiasm to the race that he brings to the sidelines and community appearances.

“Tommy is more than just a symbol of school spirit,” Orr said. “By joining the mascot race, he helped shine a light on the urgent need to fight hunger in our county. We’re proud that his paw prints were left on an initiative that can lead to positive change in our community.”

The Mercer County Food Bank distributes millions of pounds of food annually, and community support during Hunger Action Month helps sustain that effort. Donations for the food drive can still be made directly to the Mercer County Food Bank.

Related Links

• Campus Life
• Mercer County Food Bank

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