LAWRENCE — With sneakers tied tight and water bottles in hand, community members trekked along the track in the name of a bright future for Merrimack Valley families.
Lazarus House Ministries’ Walk for Hope took place from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at Veterans Memorial Stadium. Residents, community partners and other supporters were brought together for a morning of fundraising, connection, community and plenty of walking.
For organizers, the annual event is all about raising critical funds as well as awareness for individuals and families across the region facing homelessness, poverty and food insecurity.
Registration for walkers opened at 9 a.m., with folks arriving to either take the stroll or enjoy the accompanying Fall Festival.
At about 9:40 a.m., the national anthem was sung, and local leaders and event organizers offered their opening remarks to all of those in attendance. Participants then began warming up and stretching on the stadium track minutes before setting off.
Prepared to put one foot in front of another, attendees made their way around the track in support of Lazarus House’s mission and the people it serves.
Alongside the walk, the organization hosted its Fall Festival, which featured food vendors, a kids’ area, community partners, Lazarus House programs, a thrift shop and pop-up stores.
“Thank you for being a vital part of the impact that fuels our programs for individuals and families who face the challenges of homelessness and food insecurity every day,” Lazarus House wrote. “The 2,000-plus guests we serve each week will be directly supported by your participation.”
Lazarus House Ministries is a community-based nonprofit organization in Lawrence that provides emergency food, shelter, clothing and advocacy to individuals and families facing poverty and homelessness.