The 2024 Millersburg Food Run has set new benchmarks, attracting a record number of participants and raising a substantial $8,000 for the Love Center Food Pantry in Holmes County. This annual event, now in its seventh year, has become a beloved tradition that brings the community together to support those facing food insecurity.

Fueling Community Connections and Combating Hunger

A Growing Tradition of Giving

The Millersburg Food Run has experienced remarkable growth since its inception in 2018. This year, the event boasted a record-breaking 91 registered participants, a testament to the community's growing enthusiasm and commitment to the cause. "Considering we are a relatively new race, I'm proud of the growth we see every year and the difference we are able to make for our community," remarked Eva Durbin, the race director.The diversity of the participants is equally impressive, with runners hailing from as far as Pennsylvania, New York, Texas, and even the Czech Republic. "A Cleveland man 'wanted to run a 5k on his birthday and he liked our mission,'" Durbin shared, highlighting the event's ability to attract individuals from across the region who are drawn to its purpose and community spirit.

Terrain and Course Design: A Runner's Delight

The Millersburg Food Run's appeal extends beyond its charitable mission, as the race itself offers a unique and enjoyable experience for participants. The course features an out-and-back format on a paved, level trail, providing runners of the 1-mile, 5k, and 10k races with the opportunity to achieve impressive times. "The race is held on the last Sunday in July at the Holmes County Rails-to-Trails path, starting at Hipp Station in Millersburg," Durbin explained, underscoring the event's picturesque setting.The race's terrain and design have earned it praise from participants, who appreciate the chance to push their limits while enjoying the scenic surroundings. "We've gotten a lot of compliments on our race which makes us feel good about all the work that goes into an event like this," Durbin shared, highlighting the organizers' dedication to creating a memorable experience for all involved.

Rewarding Runners and Fueling the Cause

The Millersburg Food Run goes beyond just providing a challenging and enjoyable race experience. The event also offers tangible rewards for its participants, including gift cards for the top finishers in the 5k and 10k age/gender categories, as well as a raffle for gift baskets and cards donated by local businesses.Moreover, each participant receives a t-shirt and a goodie bag, as well as access to post-race snacks, ensuring that everyone who takes part in the event feels valued and appreciated. "It's nice to support our community with so many enthusiastic individuals, and to have a good time while doing it," Durbin remarked, underscoring the event's ability to foster a sense of camaraderie and celebration.

Powering the Love Center Food Pantry

The true impact of the Millersburg Food Run, however, lies in the substantial funds it raises for the Love Center Food Pantry. This year, the event generated an impressive $8,000, which will go a long way in supporting the pantry's efforts to combat food insecurity in the local community.According to Edgar Raber, the Love Center Food Pantry director, the organization's ability to purchase food at a discounted rate from the Akron Food Bank means that every dollar raised at the Millersburg Food Run can stretch even further. "Year to date, the Love Center has given away over 116,957 pounds of food," Raber shared, highlighting the pantry's tireless efforts to provide for those in need.The Millersburg Food Run's success has also translated into tangible results for the Love Center, with the organization assisting 115 new families in 2024 in addition to those already enrolled. "So far in 2024 we've been able to assist 115 new families in addition to those already enrolled," Raber noted, underscoring the event's crucial role in supporting the pantry's mission.

A Community-Driven Effort

The Millersburg Food Run's success is a testament to the unwavering support and dedication of the local community. The event is hosted by the Millersburg Seventh-day Adventist Church, and it relies on the generosity of business sponsors who donate gift baskets and gift cards for the raffle."We've been blessed that every year we have a few new sponsors," Durbin shared, expressing gratitude for the community's ongoing support. "We don't always have the same set of sponsors, but we do have some sponsors that have been with us from year one, and we're thankful for their faithful support."The Millersburg Food Run's ability to attract new sponsors and maintain the loyalty of long-standing supporters is a reflection of the event's growing reputation and the community's belief in its mission. "It's nice to support our community with so many enthusiastic individuals, and to have a good time while doing it," Durbin remarked, capturing the essence of the event's impact on the local area.As the Millersburg Food Run continues to evolve and expand, it stands as a shining example of how a community-driven initiative can make a tangible difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity. With its record-breaking participation, substantial fundraising, and unwavering community support, the event has cemented its place as a beloved tradition that brings people together to make a lasting impact on the region.