Over 600 walkers participated in Sunday’s Austin CROP Hunger Walk at Camp Mabry. Celebrating its 38th anniversary, the Austin walk brought together various faith communities in a common goal: to help combat hunger locally and around the world.

International relief agency Church World Service received 75% of the funds raised. This year, the remainder was distributed to five local beneficiaries: Capital Area Food Bank, Austin Chapel’s Angel House, Sustainable Food Center, Casa Marianella, and iACT Refugee Program.

During registration, walkers listened to tunes performed by local band Strumero. As usual, CROPman (aka Bill Renfro) was on hand to thank and encourage the walkers.

Walkers could choose between one-mile and three-mile distances. The one-mile circled around the Camp Mabry parade grounds that border Rt. 1/Mopac. The longer route wound down through a peaceful nature preserve. After a dreary morning, the scattered clouds and light breeze made for a comfortable afternoon walk.

To date, the 2016 Austin CROP Hunger Walk has raised over $65,000 for international and local hunger relief. Online donations are still being accepted.

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