Armstrong Walk for Hunger raises over $8,000 for food banks
Upward of 100 people gathered in the Zelienople Community Park on Sunday, Sept. 18, to gather resources for people facing food insecurity at the fifth Armstrong “A Walk For Hunger” event.
The walk is organized through the Armstrong Breaking Bread program and spearheaded each year by a Seneca Valley student as a senior project. The walk raises money for community feeding programs, including the Lighthouse Foundation, Southwest Butler Food Cupboard, Gleaner's Food Bank, Victory Family Church and Holy Redeemer Social Services in Ellwood City.
Armstrong community marketing manager Seth Prentice said the event raised a total of $8,500 this year, with $2,700 coming from the day of the event itself, $3,500 from sponsorships, and $1,800 from online donations.
The funds raised beat Seneca Valley student Avery Flood’s original goal of $7,000, Prentice said.
“I think we were all stunned yesterday when we did the check unveiling,” he said. “I never thought we would beat $5,000 a couple years ago, let alone have someone fundraise $8,500 for the food banks. It's just incredible.”
The event had a good-sized turnout compared to previous years, he said.
“Compared to last year, I would say we are back to normal-sized crowds,” he said. “2020 and 2021 were tough, but I think people are starting to get out and show support for community events again.”
Heading into the fall and winter, Prentice is confident that people will continue to donate and support their local food banks.
“September for Hunger Action Month through Feeding America is the kickoff into donation season. So I would say I have a lot of faith that people are going to come out and continue to support our food banks and hopefully we can still find new ways to give back,” he said. “I have a lot of faith that we are helping to take care of our own neighbors and our communities that we serve.”
