The Oxford Lions Club along with volunteers from more than 20 Lions Clubs across Central Massachusetts gathered recently to package more than 13,000 meals for local families facing food insecurity.

The effort, part of Lions Club International’s Global Week of Service to Combat Food Insecurity, brought together more than 158 volunteers, including Lions members, high school Leo Club members and community residents. Working side by side, the group packaged 13,002 nutritious meals that will be distributed throughout Worcester County.

The district-wide service project was organized by Lions Club International District 33A and included participants from 23 Lions Clubs across the region.

“We are seeing pandemic-level need among our families, and we anticipate that it will continue to grow,” said Liz Hamilton, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Worcester, which partnered in the effort. “The only way to truly make a difference is by coming together as a community.”

Andrew Keane, district governor for Lions District 33A, said the project reflects the organization’s mission of community service.

“By working collectively across Central Massachusetts, we are making a real, measurable impact in combating food insecurity in our local communities,” Keane said.

The project was supported by a $3,000 grant from the Lions Club International Foundation, along with additional contributions from local Lions Clubs and a corporate sponsorship from bankHometown. Total funding support for the project reached $5,200.

The packaged meals will be distributed through local food pantries, backpack programs and community organizations serving families in need throughout Worcester County.

Lions Club International’s Global Week of Service is an annual initiative that encourages clubs worldwide to participate in hands-on service projects focused on hunger relief and other community needs.

The Boys & Girls Club of Worcester serves more than 8,000 children annually through programs at its three clubhouses in Main South, Great Brook Valley and Plumley Village.