A holiday tradition in Sheboygan returns this weekend to support those in the community facing hunger.
The 8th annual Holiday Lights Hunger Run/Walk will be held on Saturday (November 22nd) at Evergreen Park.
Each year, this event allows participants the unique chance to experience the Making Spirits Bright light show on foot while supporting hunger-relief efforts in the county through the Sheboygan County Food Bank.
Lauren Smith with the Food Bank does not take this event’s significance lightly, stating, “The Holiday Lights Hunger Run/Walk is an important fundraiser for our organization and has become a community tradition for many. Sponsorships, registration fees, merchandise sales, VIP parking passes and other donations all directly help ensure we can continue to provide emergency food to families throughout the county.”
This year, the Run/Walk comes at a time of elevated need in Sheboygan County as the federal government shutdown delayed SNAP benefits for 12,000 residents, which caused food pantry visits to increase by 30% in October.
This increase in food insecurity caused the Food Bank to kick off its annual Year-End Giving Campaign early, to create even more opportunities to help neighbors in need.
Thus far, the Food Bank has raised over $260,000, more than half of their half-million-dollar goal.
Those looking to register for the 8th annual Holiday Lights Hunger Run/Walk can find a link to do so on the Rotary Making Spirits Bright Facebook page.
