The University of Montevallo hopes to collect 360 pounds of canned goods this week as part of the nationwide event Cans Across America.

The UM branch of Sodexo USA, an integrated food and facilities management company, invites the community to bring two canned goods to Anna Irvin Dining Hall Wednesday, Nov. 12 from 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. In exchange, donors will receive a free lunch.

Cans Across America is organized by Sodexo USA in conjunction with the Sodexo Foundation and the STOP Hunger Initiative.

Hernan Gambertoglio, Sodexo marketing administrator at UM, said the university collected 180 pounds of canned goods last year. This year, Cans Across America wants to set the Guinness World Record for the most non-perishable food collected nationally in a 24-hour period. The goal prompted UM to try to double its contribution.

“We are very excited to make this year’s Cans Across America event the biggest and best ever, and there is no doubt in our minds that we will set the new world record,” Gambertoglio said.

Shelby Emergency Assistance will distribute all donations to local families in need, Gambertoglio said.

For more information, contact UM Dining Services at 665-8233 or visit the Web site, www.forstudentsbystudents.com.