FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Stark County, OH (September 25, 2024): The rivalry between Washington Massillon and Canton McKinley High Schools is set to extend beyond the football field once again this fall. In addition to their nearly 130-year gridiron battle, the schools will engage in a competitive donation drive for Meals On Wheels of Northeast Ohio’s Wheels for Wags program now through October 23, 2024.
The Massillon Tigers will collect cat food items, while the Canton McKinley Bulldogs will focus on dog food donations. Drop-off locations include:
- Massillon Ticket Office: 1 Paul E. Brown Dr SE, Massillon, OH 44646
- McKinley Field House: 2323 17th St. NW, Canton, OH 44708
- Meals On Wheels: 2363 Nave Rd SE, Massillon, OH 44646
- All Canton City School District Building Locations
All collected pet food will support the Wheels for Wags program, which provides free pet food to homebound seniors, helping them maintain the companionship and comfort of their pets. Meals On Wheels NEO, part of VANTAGE Aging, delivers nearly 600,000 meals annually across Stark, Summit, Wayne, Tuscarawas, Holmes, Carroll, and Portage counties, serving seniors and individuals with disabilities.
“This collaboration between two deeply connected communities brings so much joy and support to our most vulnerable neighbors. This friendly competition added to their fierce rivalry, helps ensure that seniors can care for their pets,” shared Kim Ventresca, CEO of VANTAGE Aging.
Massillon won the 2023 donation drive by a narrow margin of 359 to 355, edging out Canton McKinley “by a whisker.” The winner of this year’s competition will be announced during halftime of the Massillon-McKinley football game on October 26, 2024, at Paul Brown Tiger Stadium in Massillon.
This year’s contest adds even more excitement as Massillon prepares to defend its Division II state championship title, further solidifying this iconic rivalry both on and off the field.
About VANTAGE Aging
For nearly 50 years, VANTAGE Aging has been a leader in promoting successful aging by offering programs that support older adults wishing to live independently with dignity. Through its Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), VANTAGE provides job training for low-income adults 55 and older, helping them update their skills and secure part-time employment. Retired seniors can also stay active through volunteer programs like RSVP, which connects them with meaningful community service opportunities.
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Contact: Anna Clendenin
330-253-4597 ext.189