About 270 people dashed around Camana Bay for the 10th annual 5K Santa Run, held on 7 Dec., to bring some holiday cheer and also lend a helping hand to local charity the Cayman Food Bank.
Hosted by SteppingStones Recruitment, runners and walkers of all ages, abilities and festive outfits, along with a few furry friends, did the jolly strut Saturday morning through Camana Bay, with ‘Mrs. Claus 345’ at the finish line to greet them.
“The event was a huge success – it was very festive and fun and got everyone into the Christmas spirit,” Pam Abbott, managing director of SteppingStones, told the Cayman Compass.
Father and daughter David and Una Walker, 11, proved the ones to watch as they were the first male and female to cross the finish line.
Abbott spoke of the good work done by the Food Bank, which has been SteppingStones’ charitable partner for 2024.
“We have been delighted to support them throughout the year as they are a core hunger relief organization and they strive to help feed the most vulnerable populations – children, families and seniors. They work with their network partners to efficiently and effectively fight hunger; their multi-tiered approached and comprehensive programs are dedicated to nourishing the community while empowering lives,” she said.
Naomi Law, who is a director of the charity, told the Compass, “On behalf of the Cayman Food Bank, I’d like to say an extra special thank you to Pam for all her wonderful energy that she contributed to making this event a success as well as the rest of the year’s events.
“And a thank you to her team who also were instrumental in helping the Cayman Food Bank this year as their Charitable Partner for 2024. This event is the perfect success with which to wrap up our year with SteppingStones.”
Organisers of the Santa Run, which is part of an ongoing Camana Bay ‘Christmas Give’ initiative, also encourage people to drop off non-perishables for the Food Bank at the Visitors Centre in Camana Bay leading up to holiday.
“A perfect way to clear out the hurricane supplies now that the season is over, or when you are out shopping – pick up a few extra items and drop them off. Gift cards and cash donations are also being accepted,” Abbott said.
She also asked for help to support the charity. “The Food Bank is actively seeking community donors and corporate partnerships to help keep their doors open. The rising costs on island have led to more families and individuals in need, and the cost of providing the support required is also rising.”
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