16th Annual Prom Benefit for Hunger Relief Presented by Martinelli’s Market Aims to Raise 375,000 Meals for Eastern Illinois Foodbank

For Immediate Release

Champaign, Illinois – Martinelli’s Market presents the 16th annual Prom Benefit Hunger Relief for Eastern Illinois Foodbank, which will be held on Saturday, March 1 at the I Hotel & Conference Center from 7 – 11pm. This year’s goal is to raise 375,000 meals for food-insecure individuals and families in the Foodbank’s 18-county service territory. Community support for the Foodbank is more vital than ever, as local pantries are serving 90% more people today than in 2022. The Prom Benefit was founded in 2008 by local community member Lorianne Bauer as a fundraiser for Eastern Illinois Foodbank and is managed by the Foodbank and a committee of community members committed to alleviating local hunger. Every year, people come together to relive Prom night or experience it for the first time, all while helping fight hunger. This year’s Mardi Gras theme gives attendees the opportunity to enjoy a night of honky-tonk fun for a good cause. The event will feature an auction, games, drinks and heavy hors d’oeuvres, desserts, dancing, photo opportunities, and the crowning of the new Prom King and Queen.

This year’s Harrington Law Prom Court includes: Tommy Bickham (Illini Media Group/MIX 94.5 FM), Ryan Brown (Busey Bank), Katie Harlan (The McDonald Group, powered by Realty Select One), Vilma Howard (HowardHold Insurance Group), Tasia Nellum (Heartland Bank & Trust Company), Travis Odendaal (Trautman Real Estate Agency & Appraisal), Emily Ramey (WCIA), Liz Sullard (SYNERGY HomeCare), and Kelsie Woelfle (I Hotel & Conference Center). The male and female candidate that raise the most money for Eastern Illinois Foodbank will be crowned the night of the event. Donations to their campaigns can be made online at eifoodbank.org/prom through Friday, February 28.

Early bird tickets to the event can be purchased for $125 each at eifoodbank.org/prom through Friday, January 31. Regular tickets can be purchased for $150 each Saturday, February 1 through Thursday, February 20 or until sold out.

If you or your business are interested in sponsoring the Prom Benefit, visit eifoodbank.org/prom for details.