Local tradition to provide one million meals to individuals and families who are homeless
San Diego CA— Before filling up on Thanksgiving dinner, more than 7,500 runners and walkers are expected to lace up their sneakers for San Diego’s original turkey trot: Father Joe’s Villages’ Thanksgiving Day 5K.
As one of San Diego’s largest homeless services providers, Father Joe’s Villages knows that everyone has the potential to rediscover hope. Every day, the organization helps more than 2,000 individuals access the resources they need to transform their lives. Proceeds from its Thanksgiving Day 5K will help Father Joe’s Villages to prepare and serve more than one million meals to neighbors in need.
“It takes all of us to effectively address homelessness in our community, and the Thanksgiving Day 5K is one way every family can play their part,” said Deacon Jim Vargas, Father Joe’s Villages’ president and CEO. “By coming together to enjoy a beautiful morning in Balboa Park, we can show gratitude for our own blessings by helping others.”
Participants of all ages will follow the iconic, dog-friendly route to reach a family-friendly festival at the finish line. Following the morning run/walk, the group will enjoy a live blues band, refreshments, a beer garden and a costume contest. Children can get creative with crafts and meet their favorite Disney-inspired characters.
To make their Thanksgiving dinner more meaningful, participants can also purchase a delicious pie at the end of the race. Pies for sale are made by individuals working to achieve self-sufficiency in Father Joe’s Villages’ culinary arts program.
Presented by AimLoan.com, Father Joe’s Villages’ Thanksgiving Day 5K starts at 7:30 a.m. on November 23 at Sixth Street and Laurel Street. Registration costs range from $35 to $45, with special discounts for youth and military. For more information and to register, visit thanksgivingrun.org.
If you’re unable to make it to the race, you can still be a part of ending homelessness in San Diego by donating to Father Joe’s Villages.