NEW SALEM — New Salem’s Central Congregational Church capitalized on cool fall weather and looser pandemic restrictions to reprise Franklin County’s annual CROP walk on Sunday.
The Church World Service project collects donations and amasses a crowd of walkers from various religious organizations to help combat world hunger each year.
This year’s 2.75-mile route took around 100 people down South Main Street, by the Quabbin Reservoir and back to the church, where refreshments waited for them. By Sunday morning prior to the trek’s beginning, online donations amounted to $5,570 and Facebook donations/reported cash and checks amounted to $1,025. The Charlemont Federated Church Walkers led all organizations in donation amount with $1,750, with $170 coming solely from a coin collection.
Of all the money raised, 25% goes toward the Franklin County community and 75% benefits the rest of the world.
The walk kicked off with an introduction by event coordinator Steve Damon, followed by a prayer led by the Rev. Jim Ewen. Some in attendance saw their good deeds done in association with this event as a direct execution of Jesus’ will.
“He says ‘love one another, take care of one another, feed one another.’ We’re just following him,” Damon said.
In his introduction, Damon acknowledged each religious organization in attendance, which predominantly included Christian churches from the area. However, he also made it a point to shout out Temple Israel of Greenfield, which was also in attendance. Damon said those who showed up did so with a common goal in mind.
“The people here are noticing a need and they’re willing to step up and do something about it,” Damon said. “They also understand that there’s a need for feeding the hungry.”
Regardless of religion, people old and young spent a large portion of their walk on a dirt road under the cover of autumn leaves. Ben Henderson, a moderator, trustee, deacon, and choir member at the Central Congregational Church, greeted passersby with a consistent smile, providing directions while tending to his water station.
“It’s really great to get people to exercise and raise money for a great cause,” the two-time CROP walker said.
Henderson added that those participating do so with great enthusiasm and a willingness to spend time outside.
“It’s great. You’re seeing a part of town you’re not really familiar with,” he said. “It’s a rowdy bunch of Christians, I’ll tell you that!”
Henderson’s wife, Janet said those in attendance kept good will at the front of their minds.
“They’re all happy to be raising money for a good cause,” she said. “The spirit of the walk is a positive one.”
Reach Julian Mendoza at 413-772-0261, ext. 261 or
jmendoza@recorder.com.