Over 3,500 Walk Boston Common To Raise $1M for Food Assistance

More than 3,500 Boston residents gathered on Sunday, May 3, to participate in Project Bread's 58th Walk for Hunger. Participants strolled a family-friendly, accessible 3-mile loop through Boston Common to raise funds and awareness about food insecurity in Massachusetts and beyond.

According to a Boston Herald report, the walk — regarded as the nation's oldest continually running pledge walk, according to Project Bread — raised its goal of $1 million to fight hunger in the state.

“There is no reason any person in Massachusetts should not be able to put food on the table,” said Project Bread President and CEO Erin McAleer in a statement shared with the Boston Herald. “And yet, more people are struggling now than ever. Every one of us has a role to play in making a difference, and the Walk for Hunger is the perfect opportunity to do just that.”

The need for Sunday's Walk for Hunger reflects a Greater Boston Food Bank report noting that approximately 40% of Massachusetts households face food insecurity. In addition, approximately 3.5 million have lost SNAP benefits nationwide due to policy changes under the Trump administration last July.

As the Boston Herald noted, the 3,500 participants represented 216 towns across Massachusetts, while additional walkers from 23 states and five countries participating virtually, organizers noted.

Project Bread maintains a toll-free Food Source Hotline (800-645-8333) to assist those experiencing food insecurity. The organization provides confidential assistance to connect with food resources in 180 languages and for the hearing impaired. View more information on the Project Bread website.