News

The MCC Athletic department made its first appearance last year in the Michigan Community College Athletic Association’s (MCCAA) Hunger Games and left a lasting impression along the way. 

The Hunger Games, a play-off of the popular movie franchise, is a food fundraiser where every dollar raised equals six meals and every pound of food collected equals one meal. Each member school in the MCCAA designates a home basketball game each season as their Hunger Games Night and competes to see how many meals they can raise for their communities. 

MCC had a tremendous showing in its first Hunger Games event, raising 5,126 meals, breaking the record previously held by North Central Michigan College, and winning the top spot in the event. Although he expected a good turnout of community support for the event, MCC Athletic Director Hunter Redman continues to be surprised by the amount of support the athletic department receives from its initiatives. 

“I find it difficult to find the right words to express my gratitude to the community, as every event and fundraiser we host exceeds expectations, thanks to the generous and supportive community in Montcalm County,” Redman said. “These successes inspire us to continue growing and doing more to serve our community.” 

This year, Redman hopes to aim even higher with a goal of raising 10,000 meals. To help with the lofty goal, MCC Athletics has partnered with United Way of Greater Central Michigan, which has agreed to match the first $1,000 raised during the event. 

“Making these connections and gaining support from local organizations and businesses, such as United Way of Greater Central Michigan, is incredibly meaningful in enhancing our efforts with fundraisers like the Hunger Games,” Redman said. “It’s inspiring to connect with individuals and groups who share our values and interests here at MCC. As we continue to develop partnerships within athletics, we will have greater opportunities to raise funds and support our community.” 

A large portion of meals raised during the events will be donated to The Food Source at MCC. The athletic department also intends to donate a portion of the meals raised to local food centers in Montcalm County to help them restock after the high-demand holiday season. 

The Centurions basketball teams will be taking on Muskegon Community College on Wednesday, Jan. 21, for Hunger Games Night. The women’s basketball team will start the evening at 5:30 p.m. while the men’s team will play the late game — an estimated tip-off time of 7:30 p.m. 

Adding to the festivities of Hunger Games Night this year will be the music stylings of the Central Montcalm High School Pep Band. The band will play the national anthem, during timeouts and at halftime of both the women’s and men’s basketball games. 

There will be no formal admission charge for the game. In lieu of admission, a donation of food and/or a monetary donation to the cause will be accepted. Any non-perishable food item donation is welcome. Some sought-after food items at the MCC food pantry include macaroni and cheese, pasta, spaghetti sauce, cereal, canned fruits, canned vegetables and peanut butter.