The sixth annual Kent Turkey Challenge starts this week with the goal of raising $25,000 and 10,000 pounds of food for the Kent Food Bank.

The event is a challenge between local businesses, organizations, schools and community members to see who can raise the most for the food bank. The event started in 2011 when the food bank lost a large portion of its public funding.

“This is what we have to do as a community. It’s important that we take care of each other,” said Torklift Central owner Jack Kay. “The time when neighbors helped neighbors isn’t gone. This is happening right now. We can all help make sure that our Kent families have a memorable meal for Thanksgiving. We have an opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives.”

Now through Nov. 14, anyone can go into a participating business and donate canned goods in their donation bins or purchase a paper turkey with their name on it for $10 to be displayed in that particular business. One hundred percent of all donations received go to the Kent Food Bank.

“Over the span of the event, Kent business owners and organizations have raised just about $81,000 and 25,000 pounds of food,” Kay said. “Thousands of people have been helped.”

Recently, Torklift Central was recognized by Congressman Adam Smith for hosting the Kent Turkey Challenge and on Tuesday the Kent City Council proclaimed the Kent Turkey Challenge as a necessary event to help the community.

In addition to collecting donations for the food bank, participating businesses will also be hosting a Turkey Challenge Coloring Contest for children of all ages.

To sign up for the Kent Turkey Challenge or to give online, visit torkliftcentral.com/turkey.