SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – For a fifth straight season, the Springfield Thunderbirds are proud to partner with Rock 102 in support of the annual Mayflower Marathon. Rock 102 Morning Show hosts Bax & Nagle will broadcast for 52 consecutive hours, from Monday, Nov. 23 to Wednesday, Nov. 25, as they collect food donations for Springfield’s Open Pantry outside MGM Springfield’s South End Market.

“Since the beginning of our partnership, it has been a privilege to play even a small part in such a meaningful Western Mass tradition,” said Thunderbirds President Nathan Costa. “Our friends at Rock 102 have set the standard for giving back, especially at a time of year when the need for support is felt most. Everyone deserves a full table at Thanksgiving, and we could not be prouder of our fans for their steadfast support year after year. We can’t wait to help make this the most impactful Mayflower Marathon yet.”

The Thunderbirds will do their part throughout November, collecting non-perishable donations inside the MassMutual Center box office beginning this Sunday, Nov. 1, at the team’s 3:05 p.m. game against the Hartford Wolf Pack. Donations will be accepted through Mayflower Marathon Kickoff Night on Friday, Nov. 20 at 7:05 p.m., which will feature appearances by Bax and Nagle themselves.

“We’re grateful to the Springfield Thunderbirds for helping raise awareness and support for food insecurity in our community,” said Nagle. “Every donation makes a difference, and together we can help make sure more of our neighbors have food on the table.”

Last season, the Mayflower Marathon collected more than $260,000 in food and cash donations, a new record for the event.

“Our partnership with the Springfield Thunderbirds during the Mayflower Marathon has been incredibly important,” said Bax. “Their entire organization, as well as their fans, have been a tremendous help to the Springfield Open Pantry and their mission to fight food insecurity in our area. We’re thrilled to have them in our corner!”

To learn more about Springfield’s Open Pantry and the Mayflower Marathon, click here. Those interested in donating can bring canned and non-perishable food items to the MassMutual Center box office. To purchase tickets for Mayflower Marathon Kickoff Night on Nov. 20, call the T-Birds at (413) 739-4625 or visit www.SpringfieldThunderbirds.com.