Out Run Hunger 5K unites the Treasure Coast in fight against food insecurity | St. Lucie County

FORT PIERCE — Saturday morning dawned cool and cloudless, providing perfect conditions for the Treasure Coast Food Bank’s Out Run Hunger 5K Walk/Run, one of the food bank’s major fundraisers of the year.

Now in its sixth year, the event drew 433 runners and walkers, according to Glenna Parris, chief philanthropy officer for the local food bank. Held every September during National Hunger Action Month, the race brings together individuals, businesses, and community organizations in support of neighbors experiencing food insecurity.

With $1 equal to eight meals, the $40 race entry fee paid by more than 400 entrants helps the local community food bank keep food on its shelves, ensuring that those in need will be able to find help when they need it most.

Despite the economic insecurities of these present days, Parris said community support for the food bank remains strong, with help continuing to come from individuals, local businesses, and community organizations.

That support is especially important as the food bank prepares to move into a new and much larger facility next month.

Parris explained that the expanded facility will allow more product to come in, which will mean increased distribution to help meet an ever-growing need for assistance.

Along with financial support, there is still a tremendous need for volunteers at the food bank, particularly as the organization prepares for the move and the increased distribution capacity their new facility will provide.

The pre-race packet pickup was hosted by Cobbs Landing on Friday night, with the restaurant providing hors d’oeuvres for the event.

Several sponsors supported this year’s race, including TREC, a commercial realty group. Carolyn Niemczyk, president of TREC, and colleague Dessie Santiago were present for the race, manning a booth alongside other local businesses and organizations.

Niemczyk said TREC is always looking for ways to be involved in the community and supports events like Out Run Hunger because of the positive impact they have.

From the runners and walkers who participated to the businesses, organizations, sponsors, and volunteers who helped support the event, Out Run Hunger continues to provide an opportunity for the community to come together in support of the Treasure Coast Food Bank and those experiencing food insecurity.