Dr. Edwards & Coach Walker – Ideal Advocates

Two distinguished figures from Purdue University have stepped up to assume the role of honorary co-chairs for Hunger Hike 2023. These individuals are Dr. Anne Marie Edwards, the esteemed director of the Purdue University Black Cultural Center, and Nathan Walker, the dedicated head coach of the Purdue Rowing & Crew Team.

Dr. Edwards & Coach Walker epitomize the ideal advocates for Hunger Hike, showcasing an unwavering commitment to community service, with a particular emphasis on supporting food assistance and nutritional programs. Their fervor for the importance of Hunger Hike, the potential that arises when a community unites to combat hunger, and the importance of Purdue students comprehending the challenges faced by their university community make them exceptional ambassadors. Together, they have issued a rallying cry, challenging everyone to begin fundraising immediately and to surpass this year’s fundraising target of $110,000.

For comprehensive details on how you can initiate your fundraising efforts for Hunger Hike, please see the article above or visit the official website at hungerhike.org.

September is #HungerActionMonth — and two ways you can help is to participate in Hunger Hike…and to GO ORANGE!

Put on your finest orange shirt, pants or accessories for Hunger Hike & Hunger Action Month — and share a photo of yourself on social media. Tell others about the fight to end hunger using the hashtags #HungerHike, #HungerActionMonth, and #EndHungerNow.

Some people believe that hunger isn’t an issue in America. But that simply isn’t true. Every county in the United States struggles with food insecurity. According to Feeding America, 1 in 8 Hoosiers struggle with hunger. Among Hoosier children, the number is 1 in 6. Learn about hunger in our community, click HERE.

Important Funds Dedicated to Fighting Hunger

In December it was announced that the Hunger Hike 2022 raised $118,891.83. The sponsoring organizations, St. Thomas Aquinas Haiti Ministry, Lafayette Urban Ministry, and Food Finders Food Bank, Inc. each received $33,370.49.

These funds are already working to fight hunger and give food assistance to families & individuals locally, regionally and in Haiti — and giving hope to those in need during this difficult time.

Mark your calendars — Hunger Hike 2023 is scheduled for the afternoon of Sunday, September 17. If you wish to make a donation to Hunger Hike 2023, click the button below. If you are interested in becoming a Hunger Hike 2023 event sponsor, email info@hungerhike.org.

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Hunger Hike 2022 Raises $95,000 So Far

Hunger Hike 2022 this past Sunday, September 18, had a BIG TURNOUT and a BIG IMPACT.

For 30 years, Hunger Hike has brought much needed attention — and raised more than $2.2 million — to overcome malnutrition, food insecurity & hunger locally, regionally & globally. So far this year, close to $95,000 has been raised. And YES! You still may donate to Hunger Hike, a Hunger Hike Team, or a “Hiker.” To donate by text, text HHIKE to 71777. Help Hunger Hike 2022 reached this year’s goal of $100,000. 

The kickoff event this past Sunday began with Zumba (pictured above), a visit from Purdue Pete, and live DJ music from Rat Pack Mobile DJs. The ceremony was emceed by Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, and featured the Hunger Hike co-chairs, Purdue Coaches Katie Gearlds & Jason Mitchell (pictured right), who offered inspirational remarks. There was a blessing offered by the Rev. Dr. Hilary Cooke; and the US National Anthem was sung by Indiana State Representative Sheila Klinker & her daughter, Kelly Jacobs.

The Purdue Crew Team led the hikers up on a 1.5K walk from Riehle Plaza in Lafayette, over the pedestrian bridge to West Lafayette, through Tapawingo Park, along the Wabash River to the Purdue Boathouse — and back again to Riehle Plaza.

The event also included ax throwing, a magic show, face-painting, balloon animals, clowns, rowing demonstrations, enchanted princesses, massages, intergalactic characters, and a hot dog picnic with chips, bottled water and popsicles.

Hunger Hike – Sponsoring Organizations

All Hunger Hike proceeds benefit and support the good work of three local agencies — Lafayette Urban Ministry (Food Programs), Food Finders Food Bank, Inc. & St. Thomas Aquinas’ Haiti Ministry. This year is the 30th anniversary of these outstanding organizations working together to fight hunger. Hunger Hike is one of longest running & most well-respected fundraising events. Thank you to all of our passionate participants & generous sponsors for another lively outdoor event. To learn more about the Hunger Hike sponsoring organizations, click HERE.