Dear friends,
These last +16 months have been extremely challenging for so many people at risk of hunger -- an average 107,000 individuals every month or a 17% increase over the same pre-pandemic period! We witnessed vulnerable households struggling to make ends meet, disproportionate numbers of people of color hit hardest by COVID-19, and many new visitors to food pantries because they were laid off due to COVID-19. To support our ongoing response to meet more demand for food assistance, we are excited to relaunch our in-person annual Will Bike 4 Food event in September.
I will ride 100 miles again in September and spend the time reflecting on our mission.
Last year, Will Bike 4 Food raised over $204,000. My own goal again is to raise $15,000 (the equivalent of 60,000 meals). I hope I can count on you to sponsor my ride so we can continue to feed more people, more healthy food.
Please take part in strengthening your community by making a contribution online.
Thank you so much for considering this special request to join me in spirit during national Hunger Action Month.
Gratefully,
Andrew Morehouse, Executive Director
Action creates change. One mile at a time.
Ride with me on September 26th! Register at willbike4food.org
Will Bike 4 Food
Will Bike 4 Food (WB4F) is back for its 11th year! This fun cycling event raises funds and awareness for The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Cyclists of all levels can pedal towards a hunger-free future by choosing from 10, 25, 50, or 100-mile routes. Registered riders can also participate in the Ride & Seek Community Challenge beginnning on June 26th or ride independently to fundraise. Everyone who signs up by September 6th gets a free T-shirt.
Details for the post-ride event are still in the works.
Live Event Date: Sunday, September 26, 2021 (note: fundraising remains open until October 15th)
Event Location: Hatfield Lions Club Pavilion, Billings Way, Hatfield Ma., 01038.
- For GPS purposes, you may need to search for The Hatfield Library, 39 Main Street, Hatfield Ma., 01038 or the Hatfield Elementary School – Any of these addresses/landmarks will take you to the correct location.
Ride kick-off times:
7:00AM – 100 Mile (Century)
10:15AM – 50 Mile
12:00PM – 25 Mile
1:30PM – 10 Mile
Fundraising Requirements if Attending the Live Event (Age 18+):
- $175 - If registered by 8/31/21
- $250 - If registered on or after 9/1/21
Fundraising Requirements for Children and Teens (through age 17) Attending Live Event or any other way of participating:
- None - However we highly encourage everyone to do some fundraising.
Fundraising Requirements for the Ride & Seek Community Challenge (or just riding your miles on your own):
- None - However we highly encourage everyone to do some fundraising.
Cash and checks can be turned in the day of the ride. Please make any checks out to "The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts." Checks can be mailed prior to event-day or up until October 15th.
If you have any questions, please contact Cheyenne Burnham, Event Coordinator at [email protected] or 413-203-4986.
Since 1982, The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts has been feeding our neighbors in need and leading the community to end hunger. We distribute food to our member agencies in Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden and Hampshire counties. These independent pantries, meal sites and shelters are on the front lines of emergency food assistance in our region, playing a crucial role helping individuals, families, seniors and children. Every $1 donated to The Food Bank can purchase 4 meals for a family who needs them most.