Massachusetts Congressman Jim McGovernPhoto: Getty Images
SPRINFIELD, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — It's become a tradition for U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern to participate in the annual March for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts.
"We have an unprecedented hunger crisis in our country. Food prices are soaring. Families are getting squeezed," McGovern said.
The fundraiser was created 16 years ago by Monte Belmonte who pushed an empty shopping cart from Northampton to Greenfield in hopes of raising $5,000. With the help of the community, he raised $13,000. The two-day, 43-mile jaunt takes participants on a march from Springfield to Greenfield. After marching 603 miles, Monte's event has raised more than $4 million in donations.
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According to data from the Food Bank of Massachusetts, over 123,000 people rely on pantries, shelters and meals in the four counties in Western Massachusetts.
Organizers hope to raise $650,000 this year — the equivalent of 1,300,000 meals.
Potential participants of day two are encouraged to bring the following:
- comfortable walking shoes (and a change of socks)
- reflective or bright clothing for visibility
- layers to accomodate different temperatures and weather throughout the day
- any medications you need to take throughout the day (either at regular times or in the case of an emergency, such as an epi-pen)
- snacks and water (these will be available throughout the day, but they are always good to have on hand in case you would like some in-between stops)
WBZ NewsRadio’s Matt Shearer (@MattWBZ) reports.