June 6 , 2007

Farmers Against Hunger Walk Raises $12,000
To Help Feed Needy New Jerseyans

Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes and Honorary Walk Chairwoman Pam Mount cut the ribbon to kick off the 1st Annual “Giant Step in Fighting Hunger” walk that raised $12,000 from sponsorships and walker pledges.

The weather was perfect at Mercer Park East for the 75 walkers who turned out to participate in the walk-a-thon to raise money for the New Jersey Agricultural Society’s Farmers Against Hunger program. Walkers chose to walk a three or five-mile course.

Participants were treated to fresh fruits, burgers and hot dogs, music and face painting. Walkers with pledges of $25 or more were given a commemorative T-shirt and a goody bag with gifts from sponsors.

Joe Atchison IV helps collect signs after participating in the "Giant Step in Fighting Hunger" walk held at Mercer County Park in May.

The NJ Farmers Against Hunger program is a hands-on approach to hunger relief in New Jersey’s communities. The program collects and distributes quality fresh fruits and vegetables to those in need. FAH feeds 6,000 people each week, all year long. Recipients are never charged for food which costs FAH than $20 per person, per year. The program also provides nutrition classes and easy-to-prepare recipes, in English and Spanish, to help participants eat healthier.

Walk sponsors included the Frances & Benjamin Benenson Foundation and Yardville National Bank (YNB), along with Kohl’s, Plant Food Company, First Pioneer Farm Credit, Terhune Orchards, Brad Benson Mitsubishi/Hyundai and several others.

FAH is a program of the New Jersey Agricultural Society, a 501 (c (3) non-profit organization dedicated to educating the general public about the importance of agriculture to New Jersey’s economy and quality of life. More information can be found on the Society’s web site at www.njagsociety.org.