Nearly 100 runners representing Brooklyn-based nonprofit City Harvest — New York's first and largest food rescue organization — participated in the 51st TCS New York Marathon on Nov. 6, raising enough money to feed nearly 1.4 million New Yorkers in need, which is a record-setting mark for the organization.
The group that ran on behalf of City Harvest was the largest group of runners the organization has ever fielded for the annual marathon. This was the tenth year that the nonprofit has put together a team for the event.
City Harvest's marathon team had participants from 11 states, three countries, and four boroughs of New York City.
Jilly Stephens, CEO of City Harvest, said what the runners accomplished in the marathon was truly inspirational and selfless.
“The New York City Marathon represents the best of our city — New Yorkers coming together to support each other,” Stephens said.
“This same spirit is at the heart of City Harvest’s work and the 100 people running for our team truly embody City Harvest’s mission of neighbors helping neighbors. Thanks to their inspiring effort and the generosity of so many supporting them, we will continue to help feed our community this holiday season — one day, one meal, one New Yorker at a time.”
City Harvest was founded back in 1982, and it is based out of Sunset Park.
Since its inception, the nonprofit has been able to rescue and deliver more than a billion pounds of food to assist New Yorkers in need.
In addition to the funds raised in the marathon, City Harvest also rescued more than 10,000 pounds of excess food and beverage from nonprofit running organization New York City Runners. City Harvest delivered the food and beverages to food pantries throughout New York City after the event.
The nonprofit said it will rescue and deliver 75 million pounds of food to feed New Yorkers across the five boroughs this year.
