Runners, walkers in Toronto support local food pantry

A THANKSGIVING TRADITION — Many runners and walkers made their way along North River Avenue and other Toronto streets while participating in the ninth annual T-Town Turkey Trot, a 5K race that raises funds for the Helping Hands Food Pantry. — Warren Scott

TORONTO — Many area residents took time before their Thanksgiving Day celebrations to support a local charity and get some exercise as participants in the ninth annual T-Town Turkey Trot.

About 100 walkers and runners of various ages made their way from North River Avenue, North Fourth Street and other city streets in the 5K race, which benefited the Helping Hands Food Pantry.

The run raised $4,000 for the cause, including up to $1,000 matched by J.E. Foster Funeral Homes.

Amanda Yazbek, the event’s founder and organizer, said instead of setting a registration fee, each participant was invited to make a donation of his or her choice.

But those who donated $25 or more were entered into drawings for a variety of gift baskets and other items donated by local businesses. Spectators also could enter the drawings by making the same donation.

A THANKSGIVING TRADITION — Many runners and walkers made their way along North River Avenue and other Toronto streets while participating in the ninth annual T-Town Turkey Trot, a 5K race that raises funds for the Helping Hands Food Pantry. — Warren Scott

Yazbek was pleased with the turnout since rain was falling steadily, though not heavily, on the city Thursday morning.

Chris and Krisin Martaus of Toronto noted it was colder but drier when they participated in the race for the first time last year, but they came prepared.

Wearing hooded jackets, they were accompanied by their 16-month-old daughter, who sat comfortably in a stroller covered with plastic.

Kristin said, “We like to help as much as we can. We know how it is when you don’t have much money.”

The pair said they would be visiting family in the Pittsburgh area later for dinner.

Eric Fithyan of Wellsburg said it was his first time to take part in the Turkey Trot but he had participated in three other Toronto races this year and was looking forward to receiving the coin presented to all who had completed the Gem City Quadfecta Challenge.

The coin was added this year as an extra incentive for running or walking in the Pat Campbell Fighting Cancer 5K Run in March, the Biasi-Shuma Memorial 5K in July, the Burchfield-Hale Colors of Cancer 5K Run-Walk in August and of course, the T-Town Turkey Trot.

Among a number of volunteers aiding Yazbek was Judy Miller of Toronto, who said, “I always try to give back to the city in some way. I just like to support Jay (Foster of J.E. Foster Funeral Homes) and Amanda because they’re really good people.”

Also helping out was Amy Rice, director of Helping Hands, who noted the food pantry received a boost recently from Boy Scout Troop 41, who collected canned goods and other nonperishable food from the doorsteps of homes throughout the city on one Saturday morning.

Rice said local residents donated more than 2,000 food items through the drive.

Located at 411 Clark St., the food pantry welcomes donations of nonperishable food throughout the year.

Helping Hands distributes nonperishable food to Jefferson County residents in need from 9 a.m.to noon on the third Saturday of each month, while bread and pastries are usually available from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. on Mondays and Thursdays.

In warmer months, the food pantry also distributes fresh produce.

Recipients are asked to present a state ID with photo and utility bill showing their current address.

For information, call (740) 632-6595.