Mountain Empire Older Citizens will host its 50th Annual Walkathon on Sunday, May 3, at Bullitt Park in Big Stone Gap, marking half a century of neighbors coming together to support older adults across Southwest Virginia.
Registration for the 5K walk along the Greenbelt Trail will begin at 1 p.m., with the walk starting at 2 p.m. A free picnic for participants will follow, along with a live concert by If Birds Could Fly at approximately 3:30 p.m.
Funds raised through the Walkathon support MEOC’s Emergency Fuel Fund for the Elderly, which helps older residents in Lee, Scott and Wise counties and the city of Norton pay for heating costs such as electricity, oil, gas, coal and wood.
Since its start, the Walkathon has raised more than $4.8 million to help older adults stay warm during the winter months.
This past winter, the Emergency Fuel Fund assisted 1,226 older adults across the region and provided $297,278 in assistance.
The fund receives no federal or state funding and relies entirely on donations from individuals, businesses, civic groups, foundations and faith communities.
“For 50 years, people across our region have stepped up to make sure older adults have help when a heating emergency arises,” said MEOC Executive Director Michael Wampler. “The Walkathon reflects the kind of community we have here in Southwest Virginia. People care about one another, and they show it.”
MEOC Emergency Services Director Marsha Craiger said the need continues to grow as heating costs increase.
“Every year we meet older adults who are doing everything they can to make ends meet but still face difficult choices during the winter,” Craiger said. “The Walkathon helps ensure that when an emergency happens, they have somewhere to turn.”
Community members are encouraged to collect pledges and take part in the walk. Participants who raise at least $100 will receive a Walkathon T-shirt.
To get involved or request a participation form, contact Marsha Craiger at 276-523-4202 or mcraiger@meoc.org. Pledge forms are also available by clicking HERE.