The Community Relief Organization (CRO) presented to Mount Holly City Council Aug. 11 and asked the city and community to publicize its second annual "Taste of the Town" fundraising event scheduled for Sept. 13 at 6 p.m.

CRO representative Dave Venick told the council CRO has served roughly 2,600 families and 7,000 individuals in its last fiscal year, distributing about 225,000 pounds of food and providing $71,000 in financial assistance. Venick said clients served rose about 20% year over year and that CRO raised roughly $70,000 the prior year, which helped the organization purchase a new box truck and provide financial assistance.

"It's a great event, and it's critical to our mission," Venick said. He described Taste of the Town as a charity auction with silent and live auctions, games, prizes and a "dessert dash," and said tickets are on sale on CRO's website.

Councilmembers thanked CRO for its service. Councilmember Reeves and others praised staff and volunteers and noted the new truck has increased CRO's capacity to pick up donated food. CRO asked for help publicizing the event and said volunteers have been coordinating with Mount Holly community pages and volunteers.

The presentation did not request direct city funding; CRO sought publicity and community attendance to support its operating budget.