On Saturday, May 16, 2015, the United Church of Hinesburg will host its 3rd annual 5K/1K Fun Run & Walk fundraiser to benefit the Vermont Foodbank BackPack Program.

The Vermont Foodbank BackPack Program was started in 2008 in an effort to provide a reliable source of nutritious food for youth over the weekend or during school vacation, when students do not have access to free school meals.

“The Vermont Foodbank’s BackPack Program provides food to  1,000 children each week, at schools across Vermont,” said John Sayles, Vermont Foodbank CEO.  Bags of kid-friendly, vitamin fortified food from all five food groups are packed at the Vermont Foodbank and distributed to participating schools.

Last year, the event had more than 125 participants and was able to raise $4,800, all of which was directly donated to this invaluable program. “Participating in the Hearts for Hunger event has changed my perspective on addressing hunger,” says Lori of Hinesburg, VT. “I now realize we can make a significant difference right here, right now, by supporting the Vermont Foodbank’s BackPack Program for children!”

“We are so grateful to the United Church of Hinesburg for their support of the BackPack Program,” said Sayles. “Each dollar raised will help the Foodbank provide nutritious food to our most valuable resource—our kids!”

Pre-register online, or race-day registration begins at 7AM on Saturday at the CVU High School in Hinesburg. Run begins at 8AM.