HomeFront’s annual Halloween Run, Walk and Family Fun fundraiser is set for Oct. 25 at 502 Carnegie Center Drive. off Route 1 in West Windsor Township.
The Halloween 5K Run and 1-Mile Walk will benefit the nonprofit group’s “Joy, Hopes and Dreams” enrichment program. It is aimed at HomeFront clients’ children whose families are experiencing housing instability and poverty, HomeFront officials said.
HomeFront, which is based in Lawrence Township, helps the homeless and the working poor. Its goal is to end homelessness in central New Jersey.
Meanwhile, the runners’ and walkers’ course will be decorated for Halloween, and will also feature performances by local musicians. It is U.S. Track and Field-certified.
The event kicks off at 9 a.m. with the 100-yard Pumpkin Dash for pre-schoolers. There is a $10 registration fee.
At 10 a.m., adults will take to the course. There is a $40 fee for runners and a $25 fee for walkers. The 5K is a timed event, but the 1-Mile Walk is not timed.
Trophies will be awarded to the top three male and top three female runners overall and in each age category.
Prizes will be awarded to the top individual fundraiser and the top fundraising team. Prizes also will be awarded for the best adult Halloween costume and the best child Halloween costume – but no scary costumes, officials said.
But there is more to the fundraiser than running or walking.
There is Trunk or Treat for children, who can get candy from cars decorated for Halloween.
Pumpkin decorating, along with facing painting and a Halloween photo area, also are on tap.
HomeFront’s “Joy, Hopes and Dreams” enrichment program, which is the beneficiary of the fundraiser, introduces children to art, drama, music, athletics and recreation. It also offers weekly tutoring and academic support, said GinaLynn Root, HomeFront’s director of the Children’s and Family Support Center.
“They said it takes one step to change your life. At this event, that step can help change the lives of children and families in need,” Root said.
Participation in the 5K run and 1-mile walk will support families that come to HomeFront during some of the most challenging times of their lives, she said.
The “Joy, Hopes and Dreams” program provides children with consistent, compassionate care, Root said. It gives parents peace of mind to know that their children are safe, supported, nurtured and thriving.
HomeFront offers safe and secure emergency housing and feeds thousands of households every year, officials said. It provides necessities such as diapers, personal and household items. It offers wraparound services to help families get back on their feet.
For more information about the Halloween Run, Walk and Family Fun event – including how to participate, donate or volunteer – visit www.homefrontnj.org.
