HATFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts hosted its 14th annual Will Bike for Food event on Sunday in Hatfield.
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Each year, the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts provides meals to an average of over 115,000 people experiencing hunger and food insecurity, but they can’t do it alone. The Food Bank’s 14th annual “Will Bike 4 Food” event brings the community together to raise awareness and money to support Western Mass.
This annual fundraiser unites cyclists of all levels and ages to pedal for change on the scenic routes of the Connecticut River Valley. Participants can choose between rides ranging from 100 miles to a 4-mile family fun ride, and they can register as an individual or with a team.
“It’s a good cause,” Rob Steinburg of Northampton said. “And it’s always fun to take a 50-mile ride.”
“It’s worth it,” Todd Perusse of Bristol, Connecticut added. “You’re gonna have a great feeling from this.”
22News Storm Team Meteorologist Brian Lapis joined in the cause both as this year’s Emcee and on his bike for the 12-mile cycle.
Participants can choose between rides ranging from 100 miles to a 4-mile family fun ride, and they can register as an individual or with a team. The options provided help to make this important event accessible to anyone wishing to support it.
“It really makes a big impact,” Jillian Morgan, Director of Development for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts said. “This finishes off our fiscal year so it really finishes off strong and gets us ready for fall when we traditionally get very busy.”
This year’s ride aimed to raise $250,000 to provide 750,00 meals to the community, and every dollar raised provides three meals to people in need in Western Mass. Food insecurity in our region has grown in recent years, largely due to inflation.
“We’ve been providing food assistance to folks across all four counties in numbers that we’ve never seen before,” Andrew Morehouse, the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts’ Executive Director said. “Today, we’re providing food to as many as 114,000 people every month.”
When the rides finished, the celebration continued at an after-party with food and drinks supplied by various local restaurants and breweries.
To help combat hunger and food insecurity, you can make a donation on the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts’ website and ensure that your neighbors have access to nutritious food.
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