A musical performance by talented teens in Bedford also served as a Saturday night charity event that benefited a Westchester County food pantry.

Guard Hill, comprised of Fox Lane High School students, won a national competition but could not perform at a later event when it was canceled due to weather.

People who attended the event at the Bedford Historical Hall donated boxes and bags of food to help hundreds of families who are experiencing food insecurity.

Trina Fontaine, of Mount Kisco Interfaith Food Pantry, said the organization has seen demand for donated food surge. She said most people think that the demand leveled off after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fontaine explained that the pantry served 250 households on average a week before the pandemic. After that, the number rose to about 425. Fontaine said the pantry served 630 households just last week.

Event organizer Julianne Osherow said the concert presented an opportunity for the students to perform for their families, friends, teachers and classmates while also giving back to the community this holiday season.