PEDRO — Backpack Buddies is getting ready for its second annual Backpack Buddies 5K Run for Hunger that begins at 4 p.m. on Saturday at Lake Vesuvius.

“This is our main fundraiser that we do,” said Jodie Hunt, program director for Backpack Buddies, a ministry based out of Campbell Chapel Freewill Baptist Church.

Backpack Buddies provides food and an emergency food pantry for local children and families who are in need. The program currently serves over 250 children in Lawrence County.

“We are currently in 10 schools in Lawrence County,” said Hunt.

Hunt said that the Backpack Buddies 5K is a good way for the community to help provide resources for local children.

“We have so many in our community…that struggle with hunger,” said Hunt. “Your money goes back to help kids in the community.”

It’s a great way to help out.

Already 100 runners have registered for the event and Hunt said she anticipates that more than 100 runners will participate in the 5K.

Those who plan to run in the event are asked to arrive between 3:15-3:30 p.m. the day of the race so that they can register and get to the starting line at the campground, said Hunt.

The cost to run in the race is $15 for those who pre-register and $20 for those who register the day of the race. Following the race, Moe’s Southwest Grill will provide food for those in attendance.

For more information, contact Jodie Hunt at 740-534-3550.