NORTHAMPTON — On Sunday morning, thousands will wake up, tie their sneakers, grab some hot chocolate, and line up at 8 a.m. on Hampton Avenue and Old South Street for Safe Passage’s 21st annual Hot Chocolate Run.
The annual hot chocolate 5k is the preeminent fundraising opportunity for Safe Passage and requires a full nine months of planning. Founded in 1977, the organization is focused on supporting victims of domestic violence throughout Hampshire County, including providing immigration assistance, legal counsel, housing advocacy, and counseling for survivors and their families.
“This event meets clients’ needs in a way government funding just can’t,” explained Safe Passage Executive Director Marianne Winters, who said the heavy public turnout for the event represents the people of Hampshire County saying no to a future of domestic violence.
Last year, the run raised over $750,000. This year, the fundraising bar has been raised, with hopes of bringing in $800,000.
As of Wednesday, 5,300 people had registered for the run, and Winters predicted participation will exceed last year’s field of 5,500 people.
The hot chocolate road race has grown in popularity over the years. In its first year, a mere $6,000 was brought in by 200 participants. By 2014, that number increased to 3,000 participants who brought in $300,000.
“This community is embodying what we as a community can be like,” said Winters. “It has taught the community about how we can turn a really difficult topic into something positive.” She also said the run, now a tradition in Hampshire County, has helped fuel the charitable spirit of young people who have grown up participating in it.
Several prominent politicians from the region will be present in support and will address participants, including Northampton Mayor Gina-Louise Sciarra, state Sen. Jo Comerford and state Rep. Lindsay Sabadosa.
To register, visit HotChocolateRun.com/.
Samuel Gelinas can be reached at sgelinas@gazettenet.com.
