The Reno-Sparks CROP Hunger Walk returns Sunday for its 34th consecutive year, bringing the community together to raise awareness and funds for hunger relief locally and across the globe.
This year’s event, held in memory of longtime supporter Rita Jeffres, will begin and end at Sparks United Methodist Church, located at 1231 Pyramid Way.
Registration starts at 1:30 p.m., followed by an opening ceremony and the walk at 2 p.m.
After more than 15 years of walking from Idlewild Park through downtown Reno, organizers have announced a new 1.7-mile route for 2025.
The path will travel along Pyramid Way to Greenbrae Drive, Rock Boulevard, and Oddie Boulevard before returning to the church via Ardmore Park on 12th Street, where refreshments will be served.
Miss Washoe County, Hana Altenburg, will greet walkers at the event, along with representatives from the three local recipient agencies: The Food Bank of Northern Nevada, Ridge House, and Eddy House.
According to the organization’s Reno event webpage, “No one in this world should be hungry. That's why the Rita Jeffres Memorial CROP Hunger Walk is more than just a gathering of people in a place. We're part of a movement, taking steps and raising funds together to provide meals for those in our own community who need them, and supporting programs that create greater food security in communities all around the world.”
Funds raised through the event will support the three local organizations and global hunger and disaster relief programs coordinated by Church World Service, a faith-based nonprofit that holds a four-star, 100% rating with Charity Navigator.
The CROP Hunger Walk website also states, “Please join us in the fight against hunger. The steps we take and funds we raise will make a difference in the lives of others.”
Over the years, Reno-Sparks CROP Walks have donated more than $93,000 to local hunger agencies.
The national CROP Hunger Walk movement, which began in 1969, has since raised more than $500 million for hunger relief efforts across the United States.
People of all ages were encouraged to participate. Walkers come from various places, such as from church and faith-based groups, schools, scout groups, local businesses, or simply groups of friends. There are no sign-up fees, and all are welcome.
For more information about the walk, visit the CROP Hunger Walks website page for the Reno-Sparks local event.
