Virtual Version of Annual Scare Away Hunger Run

Neighborhood House Scare Away Hunger 5K Run/Walk Goes Virtual

Neighborhood House has decided to take their Scare Away Hunger 5K run/walk virtual. For this virtual 5K, participants may choose one of the three suggested routes or choose a route wherever they would like between October 1-18. They can run, walk, or jog the distance to complete their entry. This is a great opportunity for runners, walkers, and families to get outdoors while helping those less fortunate in our community.

Every year, this event draws competitive runners, strolling families and everyone in between. Although this event will look different this year, suggested routes will be provided including Scare Away Hunger’s previous route starting from the Rochester University Campus. New route options will take runners past the Neighborhood House main office, Clothes Closet, and Food Pantry where participants can take pictures at selfie stations.

“The benefit of a virtual 5K is the flexibility,” says Sally Anglim, Scare Away Hunger Race Director. “You can run, walk or even use a treadmill on your own time – whichever you prefer, and there’s a virtual community participating with you while raising funds for an important cause.”

Due to COVID-19, Neighborhood House has experienced an increase in need and decrease in fundraising events. Because of this, Neighborhood House has created a COVID-19 Emergency Fund with a goal of $914,000. Funds raised at this event support the Neighborhood House COVID-19 Emergency Fund in efforts to continue providing programs such as emergency financial assistance, the Food Pantry, the Clothes Closet, transportation, educational classes, counseling, and more for struggling families in the greater Rochester and Auburn Hills areas.

“We are so excited to host the 10th annual Scare Away Hunger 5K Run/Walk,” Kathy Losinski, Executive Director, Neighborhood House, said. “Since COVID-19 hit, we have experienced a 70% increase in need at our food pantry. This is an excellent opportunity to bring awareness and support to the services Neighborhood House provides to local individuals and families in crisis.”

The Family Sponsorship will make philanthropy an active family event. This $250 sponsorship includes six complimentary registrations and a listing on the event t-shirts. This sponsorship and others ranging from $500-$5,000 are still available and include various benefits from logos featured on the selfie stations, the runners’ t-shirt, event website, along with complimentary registrations, and more.

Race registration is $30 per person and $25 per student. Participants who register as a family or a group also receive a discount. In order to secure a t-shirt and medal, register by September 15. New this year, individuals can create a fundraising page. If individuals raise $100, they run free. Race participants will be able to pick up their t-shirt and medal at the Neighborhood House Food Pantry on September 30. Participants are encouraged to bring food donations to the Neighborhood House Food Pantry when picking up the t-shirts and medals.

For registration and sponsorship information, visit www.ranh.org, email funddevelop@ranh.org, or 248-651-5836 ext. 17.