From 12 Meals to 2 Million: Franciscan Charities Launches First 5K Run & Walk
September 12th event at South Mountain Recreation Complex – Franciscan Charities invites the community to run, walk, volunteer and support Newark neighbors in need
Franciscan Charities, a Newark nonprofit that has grown from serving 12 meals on its first day to providing 2 million hot meals for more than two decades, will host its first 5K Run & Walk on Saturday, September 12, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the South Mountain Recreation Complex in West Orange.
The event will bring runners, walkers, volunteers and supporters together from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Participants can register online at https://franciscancharitiesinc.org/ways-to-give/5km-walk-run or on event day at the Clipper Pavilion beginning at 8:00 a.m.
Franciscan Charities began more than 20 years ago as a small soup kitchen in the basement of St. Ann's Church in Newark. Since then, the organization has served 2 million hot meals, including approximately 140,000 meals last year.
Beyond meals, Franciscan Charities provides diapers and formula to families, school supplies and uniforms to children, winter coats, and holiday gifts. The organization's work during the COVID-19 pandemic was recognized nationally by the Obama Foundation, which featured Franciscan Charities as a "Story of Hope" and described the organization as "small but mighty." The City of Newark has also recognized Franciscan Charities as a "beacon of hope and inspiration."
“Food insecurity remains a serious challenge for many Newark residents, particularly families and individuals struggling with the rising costs of food, housing, and other basic necessities. Please come out and join us on the 12th - your support will make a real difference. We can do this together!” Brother Paul Miller, Founder and CEO