World Compassion Network Plans Run, Walk Hunger 5K
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Jennifer Peryam-jperyam@timesuniononline.com
WINONA LAKE – Runners and walkers will get the chance to help fight hunger locally in March. World Compassion Network will hold its annual Run/Walk for Hunger 5K March 23 at 10 a.m. in Winona Lake. Headquartered in Warsaw, WCN responds to domestic and international disasters through local churches and alliances with other relief organizations. It seeks to serve the poor and suffering in local communities, and assists in leading short-term outreach teams for volunteers. WCN has responded to local tornados and flooding disasters as well as to recent disasters in New York, Alabama and Japan, according to Josh Grill, WCN mission director. The 5K Run/Walk for Hunger is an effort to get more people involved in helping meet the needs in the local community. “Although an international and domestic relief organization, WCN strongly believes in assisting people in our own hometown. Given the current economic conditions, many people are struggling to cover the essentials of basic things like having food,” Grill said. Race day registration will be at the Winona Lake Senior Center from 8:15 to 9:45 a.m. The race will start at 10 a.m., beginning and ending at the Senior Center park pavilion in Winona Lake Park. For more information about the Run/Walk for Hunger 5K or about WCN, participants or sponsors may visit www.w-c-n.org or call 574-267-5427. The race registration form can be downloaded from the website. “Besides the personal health benefits of families participating in the race, the race is also a great way for people to develop awareness of needs in our community,” Grill said. He said awareness can often lead to further personal involvement with local charities as a volunteer or supporter. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the race will be used to purchase food for the needy and to help overcome shortfalls in local food pantries. Sponsors are encouraged to help cover the cost of hosting the race so more food can be purchased to give to the poor and suffering. Over the past three years, more than 2,400 people and businesses have participated and have helped raise more than $29,000, Grill said. Registration fee for the race is $15 before March 11 and $20 after. Awards will be given to the overall male and female winners, and to the top three male and female finishers in each age group.
