Hundreds turned out Oct. 15 for the StepALIVE! Walkathon, the 42nd annual fundraising event to benefit ALIVE!

“We are raising awareness about the need in our community for people who need the very basics,” said ALIVE! executive director Jenn Ayers. “There is a need for things like furniture, housewares, shelter and food. So we’re walking to raise awareness and also to raise funding for all of our programs.”

ALIVE! is the oldest and largest private safety net in the City of Alexandria dedicated to fighting poverty and hunger. Founded in 1969 as Alexandria Involved Ecumenically by 14 faith communities in response to rising levels of poverty, ALIVE! has grown to 50 member congregations.

The organization holds an annual day of action to support its mission to provide a safety net for Alexandrians in need.

Mayor Justine Wilson was on hand for the walk, which began at First Christian Church on King Street and worked its way through the street of Old Town.

Added Ayers said, “The StepALIVE! walkathon not only raises the funds to provide food, shelter, and emergency financial assistance, it is a moment where 50 congregations from different faith traditions demonstrate their shared values.”

www.alive-inc.org