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Anti-hunger group falls short of goal, looks forward to 2013

FP Final Long Hunger

A Gainesville anti-hunger group is looking ahead to the next year after falling short of its 2012 goals.

Strike Out Hunger Food Drive and Basket Giveaway failed to meet its goal of 100,000 pounds of food raised in 2012, but Rodney Long, the organization's president, said it came close with 78,000 pounds.

The organization, a local food drive that brings together businesses, schools, government agencies and others to help feed the hungry in Gainesville, was started in 2008.

"Our mission is to collaborate with local businesses, faith-based organizations, education, government and law enforcement agencies, our private non-for-profit agencies and the city and county residents to develop an all-emcompassing food drive to help feed the hungry in our community," Long said.

Long said he hopes to increase awareness of the ever-growing issue of hunger through the annual food drive that includes various events throughout the year.

Other than the yearly food drive, the organization also gives baskets of food to needy families.

The organization has already started planning for its 2013 food drive, which will be held Nov. 1 - 8 at the Alachua County Fairgrounds.

Emily Stanton wrote this story online.

Amanda is a reporter for WUFT News. Reach him by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news@wuft.org.