Ortonville- By walking a few miles in your community, you can help you can help feed the hungry here, across the country, and around the world.
This area’s 33rd annual CROP Walk is planned for 1 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 6, beginning at the Ortonville United Methodist Church, 93 Church St. The 3-mile walk winds through the village and participants collect pledges with the goal of stomping out hunger. A quarter of the proceeds raised are given to the Ortonville Community Emergency Fund, the local food pantry, while the remaining 75 percent of funds will go to Church World Service, which distributes the assistance to areas around the world experiencing dire famine and poverty.
‘They do so much more than just feeding the hungry,? said Pat Snyder, Ortonville CROP Walk volunteer. ‘The funds are used to teach people how to raise crops and make bread, how to become self-sufficient.?
Last year, 80 people participated in the Ortonville CROP Walk, raising nearly $4,400. This year’s goal is to have at least 90 walkers, raising $6,000. The walk is supported by numerous local businesses, including Bueche’s Food World, Willow Pointe Flowers & Gifts, and Tom’s Market.
Snyder said the 2013 CROP Walk will honor Marilyn Featherston, who has participated in the Ortonville event since its inception.
‘She is so involved with the community and she has been a behind the scenes person all these years,? Snyder said. ‘We always end the walk in the OUMC fellowship hall, offering refreshments for the walkers and Marilyn organizes that. This year we will honor her for all the years she has helped.?
The CROP Walk is a family event and Snyder hopes families will make it a tradition.
‘In today’s economy, no one wants to ask for donations, but you have to think outside of yourself? it’s neighbors helping neighbors,? she said. ‘People are more willing to donate than we think. The community comes together to help not only OCEF, but those numbers and faces we don’t hear about on the news… This is a great day for families young and old to come out and enjoy a few hours together for a great cause.?
Over the past 32 years, walkers have raised $246,920, of which $61,730 has stayed in Ortonville.
To obtain a pledge envelope or to learn more about how you can help feed those who are hungry, call Pat Snyder at 248-425-7257 or visit www.cropwalkonline.org.