Church hosts cycling fundraiser to end hunger
Published 6:46 pm Tuesday, October 24, 2017
- HELPING HANDS: A past team at Grace Lutheran Church volunteers at Eagle’s Wings Food Pantry as part of an ongoing partnership with the nonprofit. (Grace Lutheran Church)
A Washington church will be pedaling to end hunger next weekend.
Grace Lutheran Church is hosting the inaugural “Pedal for the Pantry” event, slated for Nov. 4. The event will feature a 10-, 25- and 50-mile bicycle ride and will kick off at Eagle’s Wings at 7:07 a.m. Registered riders are then asked to gain sponsors, and sponsors can donate money via Pay Pal to Eagle’s Wings Food Pantry.
“It is to obviously help raise funds for Eagle’s Wings Food Pantry, but also to encourage healthy lifestyles in Beaufort County and encourage people to get out and do things,” said William Brooks, organizer of the event.
This is Brooks’ first time organizing an event like this, but he said after he participated in a 150-mile ride, the idea for the fundraiser quickly sparked.
He said he started talking to the church about the idea, and when they expressed interest, he reached out to Eagle’s Wings — and the nonprofit jumped on board.
Ann-Marie Montague, director of Eagle’s Wings, said anything that will bring in money and resources is always appreciated.
“When William called, that’s just another example of the support that keeps our doors open and our shelves filled,” Montague said.
Montague said it’s the help of the churches, organizations and Beaufort County residents that allows the nonprofit to see continued success.
“The reason why Eagle’s Wings has been around for almost 29 years is because of community support,” Montague said.
Brooks said many members of Grace Lutheran have already decided to dedicate their time to volunteering at the event next Saturday. Members of the church will be helping guests register, as well as handing out water and Gatorade at the finish line and halfway marks.
“I know Grace Lutheran is active in the community. I’ve gotten even better responses than I expected. They’ve been very supportive,” Brooks said.
To register, visit www.eagles-wings.org or visit the fundraisers Facebook page at Pedal For The Pantry Beaufort County. Registration will be available at the event, but online registration is appreciated.