A local Levy County group joined the fight against two global epidemics — hunger and obesity — by participating in the "Lose For Good" campaign. 

As local Weight Watchers members lose weight, they’ve also been collecting food to donate to Bronson United Methodist Church to help their neighbors in need. Within seven weeks, the group lost 854.6 pounds, and collected 488 pounds of food. 

Bronson United Methodist Church has been serving the hungry in Levy County for 14 years.The pantry is open the first Friday of every month from 9 a.m. to noon.

The church and the people of Levy County wish to thank Weight Watchers and it’s members for their generous support.

“The Lose For Good campaign provides a chance for folks to adopt a healthier lifestyle, reduce their weight and help someone in need,” says Bonnie Cirrincione, Weight Watchers Territory Manager.  “Some members have brought in food donations equivalent to their weight loss so they can make sure their loss is someone else’s gain.”

On a national level, Weight Watchers has pledged to donate $250,000 dollars for each 1 million pounds its members lose between Aug. 31 and Oct. 17  up to $1 million. The money will go to Share Our Strength and Action Against Hunger.