Westcliff Walks to Help End Hunger

September brought Westcliff University Warriors out to participate in the Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County’s “Walk to Feed OC” fundraiser, located at the scenic Tanaka Farms in Irvine, Calif. This is the second year that Westcliff University has sponsored the event, which aimed to raise $300,000 to provide nearly 15 additional truckloads of fresh produce with the ultimate goal of combating food insecurity and hunger in Orange County. This annual gathering takes place during National Hunger Action Month and tries to unite individuals from diverse backgrounds to come together and rally for the good of their community.

Westcliff University, a consistent partner of Second Harvest, jumped at the opportunity to help with this commendable cause and be a part of this day alongside other sponsors such as Disney and Nationwide Insurance. With booths, food, and games set up there was plenty of fun to be had before the walk even began. Westcliff staff handed out popular items on this bright, warm summer day that included cooling towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, water bottles, and more.

All this came in handy for the delightful 1.5 mile walk around the farm grounds, which started through a balloon tunnel and took participants up and over rolling hills, through lines of corn, strawberries, watermelon, and back again as many participants danced their way across the finish line accompanied by the music provided by the on-hand DJ. With families, friends, and co-workers walking side by side, the atmosphere was full of joy united by the purpose of giving back.

Ultimately, the day was a huge success and the significant goal that was set was met, with a total of $300,725 raised. This event marks another milestone for Second Harvest, as well as all those who helped along the way, such as Westcliff University. These funds will go directly to helping feed families and individuals in need, living in Orange County.

Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County works towards the goal of assuring food and nutritional security for all, providing equitable and consistent access to nutritious food, creating a foundation for community health. They provide food for all who need it with a concentrated focus on the most vulnerable populations—children, working families, college students and seniors. Second Harvest works with like-minded organizations such as Westcliff University to address the root causes of hunger, like poverty and missed educational and career opportunities.