Registration has begun for the 2014 “Running Against Hunger” 5k run/walk.  The event takes place on Saturday, August 16, 2014, at Sterling State Park in Monroe.  Check-in time begins at 10:00 AM with the race starting at 11:00 AM.

Cost of the event is $25, and entry to Sterling State Park is $11 per vehicle, although if you have a Michigan State Park Passport this additional fee is waived.  Registration forms can currently be found at Monroe Family YMCA, the offices of MCOP, or can be printed out online at www.facebook.com/RunningAgainstHunger.

Completed forms can be returned with cash or check, made payable to MCOP with “The Lord’s Harvest Pantry” in the memo line, to the Monroe Family YMCA or MCOP.  For those unable to complete registration forms prior to the event, registration will remain open right up until the beginning of the race itself.  Participants will receive a “Running Against Hunger” water bottle and the first place male and female runners will receive a commemorative plaque celebrating their achievement.

All proceeds from the event will benefit The Lord’s Harvest Pantry, located at MCOP.  The Lord’s Harvest pantry allows those in need to choose their own food items much like in a grocery store, and provided assistance to over 7,400 families in 2013, a 40% increase from just one year before.

Last year’s inaugural “Running Against Hunger” event, established by volunteer Michael Cochran and organized in conjunction with MCOP, helped raise $3,608, enough to provide 23,125 meals to food insecure families throughout Monroe County.

Anybody with questions pertaining to the event can contact Heather Harmon at MCOP by calling (734) 241-2775.