Today, many residents of Jamaica Plain are taking part in the Boston Marathon. One notable runner is Stephen Farmer, who is running for the Greater Boston Food Bank (GBFB) in this year’s 129th event.
The GBFB is part of the Boston Athletic Association’s Official Charity Program. This program allows athletes to raise funds for causes they care about while running the marathon.
This marathon is a significant milestone for Farmer. It’s his third marathon, but it’s the first time he’ll run in Boston. Since 2015, he has been a dedicated volunteer at the mile 25.1 hydration station, helping runners hydrate during the race.
“What GBFB does for the community is truly inspiring,” Farmer said. He recalls his first volunteer experience over a decade ago, which opened his eyes to the challenges of food insecurity. “I can’t wait to finally run this race for an organization that means so much to my family and me.”
Catherine D’Amato, President and CEO of GBFB, praised the runners representing the food bank. “These runners are committed champions in the fight against hunger. They dedicate countless hours both training and raising funds to help empower our neighbors with access to healthy food,” she explained. D’Amato highlighted that combating food insecurity is as challenging as running a marathon, but with community support, they are moving closer to a hunger-free Eastern Massachusetts.
Recent statistics show that about 1 in 10 people in Massachusetts face food insecurity, a challenge the GBFB seeks to address. The organization’s work is essential in providing millions of meals every year to those in need. In 2022, they distributed over 35 million pounds of food. This year, the funds raised in the marathon will go toward continuing that critical work.
As marathon runners tackle the course, community members cheer them on, recognizing their efforts not just in the race but in the wider battle against hunger. With each mile, they’re not just racing against the clock; they’re racing for a cause that affects many in their community.
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Boston Marathon,Greater Boston Food Bank