More than 1,600 runners, walkers, families, and supporters, along with over 100 volunteers came together on Saturday, May 2 at Cantigny Park in Wheaton for Northern Illinois Food Bank’s 13th Annual Fight Hunger 10K, 5K & 1-Mile Run, presented by ALDI. As the largest fun run for hunger relief in the suburbs, the event raised more than $300,000 to support neighbors facing hunger across Northern Illinois.
Last year, Northern Illinois Food Bank provided 93 million meals to neighbors facing hunger in 13 counties throughout suburban and rural Northern Illinois. Today, Northern Illinois Food Bank is serving a historic number of neighbors, and with changes to SNAP requirements, the Food Bank anticipates serving 35,000 additional neighbors in May and June, requiring 1 million more meals.
It was a beautiful morning for the race as participants of all ages filled the scenic course with energy, enthusiasm, and purpose. From competitive runners to families pushing strollers in the 1-Mile Walk, the community showed up in a big way to make an impact for neighbors in need. Northern Illinois Food Bank agency partners were also invited to participate and fundraise to directly benefit their local food pantries.
New this year, the Food Bank’s newest mascot, Clementine, helped kick off the 1-Mile event by racing alongside Annie and Ozzie from the Kane County Cougars, creating memorable moments and bringing extra excitement to the morning festivities.
Following the race, participants stayed to enjoy a lively post-race festival featuring food trucks, live entertainment, sponsor activities, a Kids Zone, giveaways, and finish-line celebrations. Families gathered while runners and walkers celebrated their accomplishments alongside fellow supporters.
“Events like Fight Hunger 10K, 5K and 1-Mile Run presented by ALDI show the incredible impact a community can make when people come together for a shared cause,” said Julie Yurko, President and CEO of Northern Illinois Food Bank. “Funds raised will help provide more than $2 million worth of groceries for neighbors facing hunger in Northern Illinois. We are deeply grateful to all of the runners, walkers, volunteers, sponsors, vendors, and supporters who helped make a difference for our neighbors.”
US Foods matched all event donations up to $25,000. Funds raised from the event will help Northern Illinois Food Bank provide meals for neighbors facing hunger across its 13-county service area.
To donate, volunteer, and get groceries, visit SolveHungerToday.org
