KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation, organizers of the Kalamazoo Valley CROP Hunger Walk have announced that the 45th annual event will be going virtual this year.
“It is urgent that we find new ways to engage our community to continue giving to our CROP Hunger Walk as the current pandemic creates increased need for food and resources for our local agencies and around the world,” the organization said in a statement. “Now is the time to give more than ever.”
The Kalamazoo area will be participating in the virtual walk alongside 700 other communities, which is centered around the theme of “Ending hunger one step at a time.”
In order to participate, walkers sign up online and walk in isolation, or groups of five or less, in solidarity with those who must walk to live, as well as with the millions served by local food pantries, food banks and meal sites here in the U.S.”
In keeping with the idea of “going virtual,” participants are asked to livestream their participation when walking for the event to help raise awareness online.
With respect to the COVID-19 pandemic, participants are also asked to walk in small areas such as parking lots or a city block. Those participating are reminded to practice proper social distancing as well.
It is the goal of the organization to raise $25,000 through the walk. In addition to being used for families in poverty, a portion of the funds will also support the efforts of Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes, Open Doors and the YWCA Kalamazoo Domestic Assault Shelter.
The organization adds that over the last 44 years, more than $1.52 million has been raised in Kalamazoo alone.
The virtual walk will take place on Sunday, April 26. The official Facebook event page can be viewed at this link.
More information about the event and its guidelines can be found at the Kalamazoo Valley Crop Walk website.
