RHINELANDER, Wis – The Rhinelander Area Food Pantry (RAFP) is challenging local residents to contribute to the annual Spring Challenge.

Two local families, who wish to remain anonymous, have agreed to make a partial match for all donations or pledges received from March 1 through April 30.

The Spring Challenge started around 16 years ago.

RAFP Executive Director Courtney Smith said she is excited to announce this year’s event and wishes to remind everyone that donations may include cash, checks and food items (valued at $1 per item or pound) and will be counted if received during March and April.

Typically at this time of year donations are lower, but the need remains high, so the annual Spring Challenge helps bring attention to the continuous needs of the Food Pantry.

RAFP has been serving area families for the past 18 years and has distributed in excess of nine million pounds of food.

Monetary donations can be made to Rhinelander Area Food Pantry c/o BMO Harris Bank, P. O. Box 280, Rhinelander, WI 54501.

Food items may be dropped off at the Food Pantry at 627 Coon Street from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday through Friday.