Sixty area boys' and girls' basketball teams from fourth grade through ninth grade will shoot hoops for a good cause at the 18^th annual Fighting Hunger & Feeding Hope Basketball Tournament, set for March 16-17 at the Elmen Center.

A portion of the admission fee benefits local agencies, such as Feeding South Dakota, and international aid organizations such as World Vision. Proceeds will also go to the Elmen Center Recreational Services Department to pay for non-work study staff, weight room equipment and operational costs throughout the year.

“Through something as simple as the game of basketball, students are learning how to make a difference in the lives of others. Augustana is proud to be part of this tremendous event which instills a sense of responsibility in our children and raises money for those in need,” said Carmen Hecht, a member of the organizing committee.

In 2012, the event raised $3,500 for aid organizations such as Feeding South Dakota and World Vision.

Tournament brackets and starting times will be available on Wednesday, March 6, after 6 p.m.

The cost for the two-day tournament pass is $8 for adults and $3 for children (grades K-12).

For more information, contact Mark Hecht at 605.274.4310.