Church to host 5K race for Syrian Refugee Relief

PAOLI » Paoli Presbyterian Church will be host and starting point for a 5K race Saturday, Nov. 9, to raise funds for refugee relief.

All proceeds from “Race for Refugees” will go to World Vision, a global Christian humanitarian organization that, since the start of the Syrian refugee crisis in 2011, has helped 2 million displaced people in the Middle East.

Advance donations already exceed $20,000. With a $25,000 matching donation in the wings, Paoli Presbyterian Church hopes to raise at least $50,000 for refugee aid.

“Race for Refugees” builds on an event May 20 in which church volunteers and members of the Paoli area community packed more than 500 relief kits for Syrian refugees in cooperation with Mennonite Central Committee.

“With over 65 million people displaced globally, this is the greatest humanitarian crisis our world has seen since World War II,” said the Rev. Becca Bruner, associate pastor of young adults and families. “Syria continues to be the largest source of refugees, with 12 million people displaced,

including half-a-million children.

“No matter where you stand politically, we can all agree that no child deserves this,” Bruner said. “Children deserve clean water, healthy food, opportunities to attend

school and a roof over their heads. World Vision is working with these children to give them what every person needs. We are honored to support them in this incredibly important work.”

The race in Willistown Township will be facilitated by Run for the Day, which will time both runners and walkers. Participants who don’t wish to do 5 kilometers

can register for a 1-mile challenge.

Registration starts at 7:30 a.m., followed by a Kiddie K at 8:30. The race starts at 9 a.m. Awards and Family Fun Day events will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Everyone is welcome to run, walk, or just come and eat.

Registration and information are online at www. paoliraceforrefugees.com.