39TH WALK FOR HUNGER RAISES MUCH NEEDED FUNDS; NUMBERS UP/RECORDS BROKEN
Sunday, May 6, 2007
By: Project Bread

43,000 Walkers Raise over $3.4 Million for Neighbors in Need

May 6, 2007 — BOSTON — Records were broken today at Project Bread’s 39th Walk for Hunger. Over 43,000 people turned out, raising more than $3.4 million for hungry families and individuals across Massachusetts. Residents from across the state united in the spirit of giving to walk the 20-mile route, which threads through Boston, Brookline, Newton, Watertown, and Cambridge.

Setting another record, over $1 million came in via online donations from each of the nation’s 50 states and Puerto Rico, as well as 20 countries including China, Greece, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Italy, Ireland, Germany, France, and Finland. 

The outpouring of support included an estimated 650 school groups, as well as 2,000 religious groups, and corporate teams, and thousands of individuals who put their best foot forward in an effort to help feed hungry people. Proceeds from the Walk provide funding for 400 emergency food pantries, soup kitchens, food banks, and food salvage programs throughout the Bay State.  These programs annually serve 40 million emergency meals to people in need.  

“Today’s Walk was a huge success,” said Ellen Parker, executive director of Project Bread.  “This turnout shows that the people of Massachusetts are compassionate and they involve their friends and family from around the world. I would like to thank each and every person who participated today, and let them know that their efforts are going to make a real difference in the lives of hungry people.”

The Walk for Hunger provides vital resources for the state’s rising number of hungry individuals and families. Sadly, one of the largest populations over-represented at emergency food programs funded by the Walk is children — making up 33 percent of those served, while children make up only 24 percent of the state’s population. The flood of new clients also includes the elderly, working poor, the disabled, and recently laid-off individuals whose unemployment benefits will no longer stretch to cover the cost of groceries.

“Today’s turnout demonstrates the essential ‘good’ that exists in the hearts of our neighbors, friends, relatives, and coworkers,” said Ms. Parker. “It’s an awesome sight to see thousands show up to raise funds for people in need. And the funds raised from The Walk for Hunger go right back into the Commonwealth, nourishing our communities and towns and that feels good. If you haven’t donated already, there’s still time to get involved. Just go to www.projectbread.org/walk.”

About Project Bread

As the state’s leading antihunger organization, Project Bread is dedicated to alleviating, preventing, and ultimately ending hunger in Massachusetts. Through The Walk for Hunger, the oldest continual pledge walk in the country, Project Bread provides millions of dollars each year in privately donated funds to more than 400 emergency food programs in 126 communities statewide. Project Bread also advocates systematic solutions that prevent hunger in children and that feed children where they live, learn, and play. The flagship sponsor for The Walk for Hunger is Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, which provides a sponsorship donation, a corporate match for its employees, and a $1 match for every Walker who participates. For more information, visit www.projectbread.org.

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