375 Walkers from area congregations participated in the 2009 Elkhart County CROP Hunger Walk which raised $25,555.

Walkers and runners cover one of two routes, 1 mile or 5K, beginning and ending at Island Park. Elkhart area churches, civic groups, and youth groups, as well as individual walkers are invited to participate. Donation envelopes for gathering pledges will be available close to the walk time at Church Community Services, 907 Oakland Ave, Elkhart, IN, or at area churches. Donation envelopes are also be available the day of the walk.

Funds raised by Walkers and Runners benefit Church World Service and its partner programs. CWS grants for 25% of what we raise are shared locally by Church Community Services (Elkhart) and The Window (Goshen) to fight hunger locally.

A unique option offered by Church World Service allows a sponsor to designate his gift to other hunger-fighting agencies like CARE, American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), Heifer Project International, MAP International, Project HOPE, or Mennonite Central Committee (MCC).

There are several checkpoints along the route with restrooms, drinks, and refreshments available. At the finish line. participants are welcomed back with music, freshly popped popcorn, and drinks.

Check in begins at 1:00 p.m. at Island Park. Runners begin their participation at 1:45 p.m. Walkers begin at 2:00 p.m. and can set their own pace. Racewalkers or strollers can participate, and it is not necessary to complete the entire route. Baby strollers, wagons, and wheelchairs are welcome at the CROP event, but, for safety reasons, in-line skates and bicycles are not allowed.

For more information, donation envelopes, or to sponsor a walker, contact area churches or Dean Preheim-Bartel, Church Community Services, 907 Oakland Ave., Elkhart, IN 46516. Phone 574-295-3673.