Million Meal March raises $22,200 for local families

A group of hikers taking part in the Million Meal March on the White Pine Trail, Sept. 27, 2014.
A group of hikers taking part in the Million Meal March on the White Pine Trail, Sept. 27, 2014.
Food Bank CEO Ken Estelle, right, stands with operations manager Chad DeVries and Chad's daughters Taylor and Madelyn.
Food Bank CEO Ken Estelle, right, stands with operations manager Chad DeVries and Chad’s daughters Taylor and Madelyn.

Comstock Park, Michigan — September 29, 2014 — Hikers, bikers, runners, and walkers raised $22,200 for Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank at the Million Meal March on Saturday, Sept. 27. The total, which got a boost from contributions by National Food Group, Star Truck Rentals, Metro Health and other sponsors, will provide nearly 89,000 meals to people in need in West Michigan and the Upper Peninsula.

The family-friendly event drew 176 participants, who hiked a 10-kilometer route along the White Pine Trail, beginning at Feeding America West Michigan’s Comstock Park headquarters.

“The weather was just impeccable,” said CEO Ken Estelle. “We were encouraged that so many people chose to spend part of this beautiful day taking a stand for the hungry in West Michigan.”

Music for the event was performed by local string band Hawks and Owls and DJ Keller Shaw, while Cyril Catering, The Corner Bar of Rockford, Country Fresh, Heeren Brothers Produce, Coca-Cola and Pepsi provided food and refreshments.

Donations to the Million Meal March may be made through Sept. 30 on CrowdRise.com.

The hike began at 10 a.m. at Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank.
The hike began at 10 a.m. at Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank.
Hikers start off on the White Pine Trail toward Belmont.
Hikers start off on the White Pine Trail toward Belmont.
This year's t-shirts were designed by Lansing-based company Live Love Michigan.
This year’s t-shirts were designed by Lansing-based company Live Love Michigan.