Last year, over 225 walkers got in step against world hunger in the annual Lake Orion/Oxford CROP Walk, and this year, their goal is to increase that number to 250 participants.
According to Adam Mueller of Community of Christ, who is coordinating the event along with Ann McKinley of Oxford’s Immanuel Congregational, last year’s event raised $26,851.
‘Church World Service CROP Walks take place throughout the country, and in 145 communities in Michigan,? Mueller said, noting that 14 churches will represent the Lake Orion and Oxford in this year’s walk.
Participating churches are Christ the Redeemer, Christ the King, Community of Christ, Dominican Convent, Howarth United Methodist, Immanuel Congregational, King of Kings, Lake Orion United Methodist, Lakeville United Methodist, Oxford United Methodist, Paint Creek United Methodist, St. Mary’s in the Hills, St. Joseph and Thomas United Methodist. Oxford Girl Scout Troop 1952 will also walk.
Last year, according to Mueller, 25 percent of the money raised stayed in the local communities, with 15 percent given to Oxford/Orion FISH, five percent to St. Vincent De Paul and five percent to Love INC.
‘The majority helped Church World Service relief projects throughout the world,? he noted. ‘This includes sustainable self-help and development, disaster relief and refugee assistance in more than 80 countries.?
According to Mueller, CROP Walk participants can choose either a two-mile walk or six-mile scenic walk that is extended through Orion Oaks Park.
The walk, which starts at Christ the Redeemer on Waldon Road, is Sunday, May 4. Registration begins at 1:15 p.m., with praise music and face painting, a clown and balloons for the children. The CROP Walk will begin at 2 p.m., rain or shine.
For more information about the CROP Walk, visit www.cropwalk.org.