Photo submitted to the Times Observer Rev. Mark Hecht and Rev. John Swart hold a small sample of the pasta the First Methodist Church of Warren has collected during their March Macaroni campaign to help stock the shelves of local food pantries.

Taking a fun and charitable spin on the annual NCAA basketball tournament frenzy, First Methodist Church of Warren has launched its first-ever “March Macaroni Madness” which is a month-long pasta collection drive to support local food distribution organizations.

Since the campaign began on March 1st, church members and community supporters have been donating pasta of all shapes and sizes, from small individual bags to full cases. Initially, the church set a goal of collecting 200 pounds of pasta. Still, thanks to overwhelming generosity, that target has already been surpassed. With momentum building, organizers are aiming for 300 pounds before the campaign concludes on March 31st.

The event also features a friendly competition between men and women to see which group can contribute the most pasta. This lighthearted rivalry has fueled enthusiasm and engagement among participants.

Those interested in donating pasta can drop off their contributions at First Methodist Church, 200 Market Street, during weekday office hours or on Sunday mornings. For more details, call (814) 723-4930.

With just days left, the church hopes to push its total even higher, ensuring local food pantries are well-stocked with pasta to distribute in April.