The Reno-Sparks CROP Hunger Walk is named in memory of Rita Jeffres, but this year, there's someone else to remember.
"It's my dad's cause, he died this last July," says Kristi Meier.
Meier's father, Larry was a member of First Congregational Church of Reno and last served as a pastor to First Christian Church in Kennewick, Washington. To honor his legacy, people participating in the walk either carried or wore a sign saying, "I walk for Larry."
Co-director Judi Jensen says she's returning the favor to Hansmeier.
"Larry was also one of our CROP walk supporters, both here and in [Washington]," Jensen says. "They are here in his honor, in his memory, walking to raise funds as well."
This year's walk raised money for the Eddy House, Food Bank of Northern Nevada, and Ridge House.
Folks started walking north along Pyramid Way, then turned west on Greenbrae Drive. From there, they headed south on Rock Boulevard and then east on Oddie Boulevard before ending back at the church.
Meier's sister, Sheri Cheung, travelled from Massachusetts to be at the CROP Walk on Sunday. She says the family donated to the cause in recent years and wanted to do a little more this year.
"Our family decided it would be a great way to honor him, to all gather and instead of donating only, also walking in honor of him," Cheung says.
Over its 34-year history, the Rita Jeffres Memorial CROP Hunger Walk has raised over $93,000. Every cent of that has gone right back into the local community.
"It feels great to have [Larry's] church here and many donations from out of state as well," Meier says, "It's just good to walk for him, it's really good and healing for the family as well."
To learn more about CROP Hunger Walks and how you can support them ahead of next year's walk, click here.
