DEARBORN, Mich. -

Ford and Feeding America, one of the nation’s largest hunger-relief organizations, are organizing the 2013 Ford Escape Hunger Drive, a campaign covering all regions of the United States.

During drive events, guests will be able to drive, walk around or ride in the all-new Escape, and in turn Ford will provide 40 meals per guest to people at risk of hunger.

Blue Oval officials tabulated that Ford and Feeding America will help provide more than 1.2 million meals total, and participants will also receive a Ford backpack and automatic entry into a sweepstakes.

The automaker noted guests at each Hunger Drive event will have the opportunity to experience the smart features of the all-new Escape. Ford specialists will be at each event to walk participants through the Escape and provide information on the vehicle’s characteristics and technologies including its class-exclusive, hands-free liftgate, fuel-efficient EcoBoost engine, active park assist and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS).

Ford highlighted these drive-for-charity events could take place anywhere within a supporter’s community. An event could be tied to already-scheduled events at churches, community centers or other civic organizations. The first events are slated to kick off later this month.

“Ford has always embraced helping people in need, and this is a good way to give back to the community, while simultaneously showcasing the all-new Escape,” said Crystal Worthem, Ford brand content and alliances marketing manager. “For the first time, Ford is linking its charity support with bringing a new vehicle to market.”

Vicki Escarra, president and chief executive officer of Feeding America, added, “We at Feeding America are proud of our longstanding relationship with Ford.

“Ford has a history of merging transportation with hunger relief efforts, and we are grateful they are extending that partnership linked to the  2013 Escape to help us get food to millions of families struggling with hunger,” Escarra went on to say.

Officials also mentioned the Ford Motor Company Fund, in partnership with Newman’s Own, has already provided 103 Ford refrigerated trucks to Feeding America affiliates through an 11-year initiative called Partnership for Hunger Relief. The fleet has delivered more than 176 million meals to families throughout all 50 states.

“We believe it is critical to support people in need and we have been doing so throughout our company’s 108-year history,” said Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Co. Fund and Community Services.

Individuals interested in organizing an event can find information at www.escapehungerdrive.com. Event organizers will be fully supported by Ford, which will provide an all-new Escape for their event along with an expert to explain the attributes of the model.