Arlington CROP Hunger Walk

An unconventional CROP Hunger Walk for an unconventional time. COVID-19 has made this a very different year for the annual Arlington CROP Hunger Walk. The economic impact of the pandemic has made food insecurity an even greater problem, making this year’s Walk even more important for those in need. The event supports Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC) and helps end hunger worldwide.

Adjustments have been made to the traditional event because of COVID. Fundraising and promotion are virtual, and participants will walk individually on the routes they choose in their own neighborhoods.

“Safety first is always our mantra,” says event coordinator Kenn Speicher. “So this year, we are going virtual as much as possible. There will be no big gathering at the start.  Walkers can plan their own personal routes, and walk or run individually, or with family or friends. October 17 is the official Walk Day (any time, all day), but we encourage everyone to pick a day and time that’s convenient for them.”

Communities across the U.S. host CROP Hunger Walks every year. Sponsored by Church World Service (CWS), they raise funds to provide sustainable self-help and development, food resources and disaster relief and refugee assistance around the world. The global pandemic is increasing hunger and malnutrition in a growing number of struggling countries. Refugee camps are especially vulnerable.

Twenty-five percent of the money raised supports AFAC, which now provides groceries each month to about 3050 families facing food insecurity. Of the people AFAC serves, 33% are children and 12% are elderly. AFAC has seen a 45% increase in referrals for help since the pandemic began.

Over the years, the Arlington CROP Hunger Walk has raised more than $1 million to help people struggling to feed their families. “We have all seen the huge lines of cars at food banks,” says Speicher. “The need is great, so we are appealing to everyone to join a team, sponsor a Walker, or make a donation. I am so grateful for how Arlingtonians come though year after year.”  
 
To join a team, donate, or start a team, go to: www.crophungerwalk.org/arlingtonva  
Visit our local website: www.arlingtoncropwalk.org
For information, contact: Kenn Speicher, 703-328-2607, [email protected]

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Category: Community / Fundraisers / Charities Time: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm