Meals purchased through Outreach Inc.'s food packaging program cost just 25 cents each.

While organizers with Carbon County's first food packaging event weren't sure what to expect in 2013, they are now enthusiastic about this low-cost step toward ending hunger in our area."When we did this the first time, we had no idea what the product was and how it would be accepted," said Alvin Sellers, the president of the End Hunger Carbon County action committee."We were curious as to what the response would be, and the response was favorable overall. It's just like making mac and cheese."He noted that when it comes to supplying emergency food supplies, meant for families experiencing even greater than normal need, it's important that the food be both easy to prepare and easy to store at pantry sites.Sealed packages have a shelf life of two years.When trying to feed hungry children, it's also important to consider taste.Sellers and committee Vice President Edwin Belon first tasted Outreach Inc.'s nutritionally fortified macaroni and cheese two years ago, when they prepared a sample package while they were considering organizing the first drive.They have since prepared and served additional sample packs for local groups to raise awareness of both the problem of hunger and the potential of food packaging events."We are still trying to establish the program and its importance of feeding families in Carbon County," said Sellers."It was really well-received. People were surprised that any type of prepackaged product would be so appealing."Thanks to a donation by Thrivent Financial that covered mailing and marketing costs, nearly every dollar donated will go toward purchasing food supplies."All of the money that comes from donors is going to end up going toward food. Very little goes toward administrative expenses," he said."We try to keep administrative costs limited to 1 or 2 percent."