Westside Food Bank will host its 35th Annual 5K Hunger Walk on Nov. 2 at Ocean View Park to raise awareness and funds for fighting hunger.
Registration is free, aimed at increasing accessibility and raising awareness about food insecurity during a time when inflation, government shutdown and cuts to safety net programs threaten food access for thousands of local households.
"The Hunger Walk is more than just an event," said Westside Food Bank President and CEO Genevieve Riutort. "It is a powerful demonstration of local solidarity and our commitment to providing nutritious food for our neighbors in need."
The event follows devastating fires that hit Southern California in January. Westside Food Bank has experienced a 30% surge in need since the beginning of the year. The number served has doubled to nearly 700 families across five Weekly Free Mobile Markets, and more than 40 partner food pantries are also seeing increased demand.
Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, Los Angeles City Councilwoman Traci Park and Rohan Abraham, a field representative for Rep. Ted Lieu, are expected to attend.
The Nov. 2 schedule includes check-in beginning at noon, pre-walk festivities at 1 p.m. and the 5K walk starting at 2 p.m.
Before the walk, participants can enjoy a business expo with sponsor goodies, raffle and auction, and a Family Fun Zone with games. All registrants receive a free T-shirt and swag bag.
The pre-walk program will feature performances from Santa Monica College Global Motion World Dance Company and remarks from officials. The 5K route runs along Ocean Front Walk next to the beach.
"I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Westside Food Bank for their unwavering commitment to addressing food insecurity in our communities," Irwin said.
Visit wsfb.org/hungerwalk to register. Every $5 donated provides 20 nutritious meals for local people struggling to meet basic needs.
Edited by SMDP Staff