What's Happening: 5K Walk+Run Against Hunger

The annual Stroehmann 5K Walk+Run Against Hunger takes place tomorrow morning at 8 a.m. sharp, starting from the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum.

Last year's event attracted over 4,000 participants and raised almost $250,000 for area organizations including the Coalition Against Hunger, SHARE, The Food Trust and Philabundance. The event has been a spring tradition in Philadelphia since 1996.

After the start of the run, the opening ceremonies commence at 8:30 a.m.—when many runners should be crossing the finish line. Speakers will include executive from Stroehmann bakeries and Acme Markets, as well as an active Philadelphia Eagles player (the player's name was not available as of today.)

"One in four Philadelphians are at risk of hunger and 49 million Americans are currently listed as food insecure," says Eagles President Don Smolenski. "We are proud to partner with the Greater Philadelphia Coalition Against Hunger to build a stronger community where people have the food they need to lead healthy lives. We are honored to sponsor a team in the Coalition's annual Walk+Run Against Hunger 5K this Saturday."

Eagles cheerleaders and team mascot Swoop will also be present in time for the 9 a.m. walk. Finish line festivities will commence at Eakins Oval at 10 a.m., featuring line dancing, free hot dogs and other giveaways.

"Even as the economy recovers, 1 in 7 people in Southeastern Philadelphia still struggle to afford the food that they need," says Laura Wall, Executive Director of the Greater Philadelphia Coalition Against Hunger, the organization responsible for coordinating the event. "Recent cuts to SNAP (food stamps) have increased the need we're seeing at local food pantries and other charities. The Walk+Run Against Hunger helps them to raise much needed funds to continue serving those in need."

It's not too late to sign up—the Run costs only $35 if you sign up on site. Participation in the Walk is free, but each individual is encouraged to donate or fund-raise whatever they can.

“It’s critical that we support these programs,” concludes Laura Wall. “They keep families from going hungry every day.”

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