Will Bike 4 Food raises record-breaking $197,000 to support struggling households

The Food Bank’s 9th Annual Will Bike 4 Food, presented by Stop & Shop has so far raised a record-breaking $197,000 to support local households facing hunger.  The annual cycling event kicked off on September 29 at the Lion’s Pavilion in Hatfield and drew 450 participants of all ages who raised funds and rode one of four scenic routes through the Pioneer Valley. Immediately following Will Bike 4 Food, The Food Bank announced that $170,000 had been raised. However, cyclists raised an additional $27,000 by the October 31 fundraising deadline.

Local organizations, corporate groups and children were among the top- team fundraisers recognized at the event, including: Heart & Soul ($10,995), 50/50 Fitness ($9,923), CS Energy ($9,550), Ewing RR ($5,596), Stop & Shop ($3, 694), and Kids Bike ($3,690).

“A great time was had all while doing good at the same time,” said Andrew Morehouse, Executive Director of The Food Bank. “The community provide the equivalent of 591,000 healthy meals in the region. We’re grateful to everyone who supported our cause to feed our neighbors in need.”

All proceeds from Will Bike 4 Food will benefit The Food Bank, helping our organization distribute healthy food to more than 175 food pantries, emergency meal sites and shelters. The donations will help support our direct-to-client feeding programs, including the Brown Bag: Food for Elders (serving thousands of area seniors monthly) and our Mobile Food Bank (bringing fresh, healthy groceries directly to communities lacking access to nutritious food).

The Food Bank would like to thank all who participated in Will Bike 4 Food for supporting their neighbors during this event.