Hunger Challenge 2026: A Portage County Tradition That Makes a Real Difference
Join the Challenge. Support Your Neighbors. Help Us Beat Last Year's Record.
Every April, something special happens in Portage County. The cities of Kent and Ravenna come together in a fun competition to see who can do the most good for their neighbors. It’s called the Hunger Challenge, and it’s one of the most important fundraisers of the year for the Center of Hope in Ravenna and Kent Social Services in Kent.
Why the Hunger Challenge Matters
In Portage County alone, it is estimated that 22,700 individuals experienced food insecurity in 2025. For children, that number was 4,890! With the rising costs of food and general living expenses, we are seeing these numbers continue to rise. That’s why this challenge, and the work being done by the Center of Hope and Kent Social Services, is so important.
A look back at 2025:
- The Center of Hope supported 7,677 individuals and served 23,832 hot meals
- Kent Social Services supported 7,220 individuals and served 17,634 hot meals
Help Us Beat Last Year's Numbers
Last April, the community came together in a big way:
Ravenna raised $34,648 and collected 14,382 food items
Kent raised $31,542 and collected 11,214 food items
This April, we’re raising the bar. Our goal? Surpass those numbers and make 2026 our most successful year yet.
How to Participate
The Hunger Challenge runs April 1–30, 2026, and there are so many ways to get involved:
1. Donate Food
We’re accepting nonperishable and non-expired items such as:
- Canned tuna
- Peanut butter & jelly
- Macaroni & cheese
- Canned fruit & vegetables
- Canned soup
2. Make a Monetary Donation
Financial gifts go a long way and allow our centers to purchase exactly what’s needed most. You can donate online at: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/hungerchallenge
3. Volunteer or Help Spread the Word
Share the need. Tell a friend. Start a collection at work. Every small action adds up to real impact.
Where to Donate
You can drop off food donations Monday-Friday 10am-3pm throughout April at:
- Center of Hope
1081 W. Main Street, Ravenna, OH 44266
- Kent Social Services
1066 S. Water Street, Kent, OH 44240
Additional Donation Boxes (Available All April)
- Portage County Health District in Ravenna (collecting for Center of Hope)
- Kent Police Department lobby (collecting for Kent Social Services)
Let’s rise to the challenge and make 2026 a record-breaking year!
Thank you for being part of this mission to fight food insecurity in Portage County.