Mets food drive presented by Hain Celestial to benefit City Harvest

The New York Mets will host the Mets Food Drive presented by The Hain Celestial Group, Inc. to benefit City Harvest Friday, Saturday and Sunday July 11-13 at Citi Field. Fans donating at least five non-perishable items will receive a voucher for two tickets to select September Mets home games plus coupons for future use on Hain Celestial products, which are available nationally at natural food retailers and select mainstream supermarkets. Hain Celestial's Sensible Portions®, Terra® Chips and Yves Veggie Cuisine® products are sold at Citi Field.

The Mets will be accepting food donations two hours before game time through the first inning at the following Citi Field entrances: Jackie Robinson Rotunda, Hodges VIP, Seaver VIP, Left Field Gate and the Bullpen Plaza.

"We always appreciate the opportunity to team up with our valued partners like Hain Celestial that have similar missions to be a part of important efforts that benefit our community," said Lou DePaoli, Mets Executive Vice President & Chief Revenue Officer. "Hunger is a serious issue and the Mets and Hain Celestial are fortunate to be in a position where we can make a difference in the lives of those around us."

The Mets Food Drive will also raise awareness about the increased need for hunger relief in New York City. More than two million residents are facing hunger each year, a number that has climbed since November when households saw a decrease in food stamp allowances, according to City Harvest.

Wives of Mets players are supporting the cause by serving in television public service announcements airing on SNY about the Mets Food Drive and volunteering to collect food at Citi Field during the drive.

Fans may also donate food at the Fairway Market locations throughout New York City through Saturday, July 12.