SALEM, Ohio - An effort designed to help tackle childhood hunger in Columbiana County kicks off Thursday afternoon.

The Brightside Project is holding its first Food Give Away for Kids on Thursday May 23 from 5pm-7pm at its headquarters located at 138 S. Broadway Ave., Salem.

The Brightside Project team is aiming to reach out to kids ages 3-15 years old who experience food insecurity.

They will offer a choice food pantry just for kids to choose food items they like to eat to take home.

All foods offered will be child-friendly and non-perishable including; soups, granola bars, juice boxes, crackers and more.

The organization has partnered with Salem First Friends Church whose members donated the granola bars and juice boxes and Charles Rishel of Simply the Deals who helped provide them with other food items.

"We're really excited to launch this program in Columbiana County. These kids need to know that as a community, we're here to help and we care. This is a fun way that allows us to meet their basic needs and show them a brightside," says Lisa Wallace, Co-Director of The Brightside Project.

Children in attendance must be accompanied by a guardian who can provide proof of Columbiana County residence as well as qualifying income such as the medical card, food assistance award letter or pay stubs.

For more information or to donate www.brightsideprojectohio.org or call 234-564-0148.