Hunger Hike 2011 raised nearly $93,000 to benefit three local groups. The money is being evenly split among Lafayette Urban Ministry, Food Finders Food Bank, and the St. Thomas Aquinas Haiti Project.
LUM Executive Director Joe Micon says the need for programs to help low-income people in the area has never been greater. He cites prolonged, high unemployment in the area and the strain on local food pantries.
Nearly one-thousand walkers and runners participated in Hunger Hike 2011.
Money also was raised through special promotions and a record number of corporate sponsors, including Bison Financial Group. President and CEO Dave Vorbeck says feeding hungry citizens is good for the economy.
The annual event is held in late September.