FAQ’s | The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts

FAQ's

Where is the event happening?
The event on September 22nd will take place at the Hatfield Lions Club Pavilion, 15 Billings Way, Hatfield MA 01038 (Behind Hatfield Elementary School and the Hatfield Library). Participants can also register and fundraise as a Virtual Rider and bike their miles anytime during Hunger Action Month in September.

What time does the event start?
The start time for the event varies depending on which route participants are riding. Riders are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes to an hour before their start time to give themselves time to check in, enjoy available refreshments and bike matinence, and get themselves ready for their ride. The kickoff times for each route are as follows:
- 7:00AM – 100 Mile (Century)
- 10:15AM – 50 Mile (Half Century)
- 12:00PM – 25 Mile (Quarter Century)
- 1:30PM – 10 Mile (Family Fun Ride)
- The After-Party starts at 2:00 p.m.

Will the event be postponed if it rains?
No. However, you are never required to ride. If you don’t feel safe riding on the day of the event, we simply ask that you turn in your fundraising in advance or drop it off at The Food Bank the following week.

Where can I park when I arrive on the day of the event?
Parking will be available on a first come/first serve basis at the Hatfield Elementary School parking lot. You will have a short walk (or bike ride) to registration and the pavilion. Additional parking will be available at The Hatfield Town Hall (just down Main St.).

Is fundraising required?
Fundraising is required to attend the event on September 24th. We ask that participants 18 and over raise a minimum of $200. Participants under 18 are encouraged to fundraise, but it is not required.
You will have until Oct. 15, 2023 to complete your fundraising. If you have not met your minimum, you will be billed for your remaining balance and have the opportunity to contact us in regard to any potential errors on our part.

Can I get a refund due to weather or if I need to cancel?
Registration fees are non-refundable and may not be deferred to another year. WB4F takes place rain or shine. In case of severe weather, The Food Bank may cancel or modify the ride for safety concerns. In the unlikely case a ride is canceled, the registration fee can be claimed as a tax-deductible donation.

What do I need to bring with me the day of the event?
Just bring your bike, your helmet, and at least one bottle of water. There will be stops along the way where you can refill your bottle. Riders have also found it helpful to also bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and extra clothes. It is strongly encouraged to wear reflective clothing and have front and rear lights on your bike for visibility – even on a sunny day.

Do I have to start biking at a certain time the day of the live event?
To make sure everyone returns on time and that safety precautions are in place, please leave at your designated time. If you’re concerned about returning on time and need a headstart, please email events@foodbankwma.org and let us know.

Can I still complete my miles on my own?
Certainly! You can sign up for the Virtual Ride and rack up your miles mountain biking, indoor cycling, unicycling…however you choose to reach your goal!

Can I attend the After-Party if I don’t bike that day?
If you registered as a Virtual Rider, you can attend the After Party by paying an additional $15 day-of.

How do I get a shirt?
All registered participants including Virtual Riders get a free WB4F t-shirt. Folks who have registered to ride day-of get a voucher for a meal and beverage at the After-Party. If you will not be attending the After-Party, you can arrange to pick up your shirt or have it mailed. Participants who raise $1000 or more will receive a Will Bike 4 Food cycling jersey. Children riding in bike carriers are free and will not receive a t-shirt.

How do I volunteer?
We rely on volunteers for a variety of tasks before, during, and after the event. Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator Alex Santiago or click here to see what group and individual volunteer opportunities are available.

Can I change my route after I register?
Please email events@foodbankwma.org if you need to change your route. You can also change your route in your Participation Center.

Are there restrooms along the routes?
There will be porta-potties located near the water/snack stops along your route. We will provide you with the location of each water stop and porta-potty.

Do teams have to ride the same route?
No. You don’t all need to ride the same route to be considered a team. The routes are developed to have different levels of difficulty for different levels of cycling experience. The 10-mile is great for families, while the 100-mile is suitable for more experienced cyclist. Choose one that’s right for you.

What is the Will Bike 4 Food After-Party and what time does it start?
The After-Party will go from 2:00pm to 5:00pm and is included in your registration. It includes lunch from The Smithsonian Café & Chowderhouse (vegetarian and gluten-free options available), a Crooked Stick pop, and beverages from Berkshire Brewing Company, Head Water Cidery, and Black Birch Vineyard. Non-alcoholic beverages will also be available. After-Party tickets for non-riders can be purchased for $20 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under.