Boyertown CROP Walk: A fight to end world hunger

Dreary weather did not damper the spirits of area church members that gathered together Sunday afternoon, Oct. 7, for their 32nd Annual CROP Hunger Walk.

Dozens made their way to The Multi-Service Center in Boyertown, with rain jackets and umbrellas in hand, to join in a walk that helps children and families worldwide.

“We are blessed with the rain today,” said Pastor John Pearson. “Those in drought would welcome the blessing of this rain.”

Usually taking place as a 5-mile walk from Boyertown to New Berlinville, the walk was adjusted to 2.5 miles due to weather conditions.

Prior to the walk, Pastor John Pearson presented a video depicting Kenya’s struggle for water and food, inspiring and reminding walkers about the ultimate purpose of CROP.

Beginning in 1981, the Boyertown Area organized a volleyball tournament to raise funds for CROP.

The walk in Boyertown began in 1997; attendance varying each year from 40 up to 300 participates.

$212,000 has been raised to date.

Participating area churches include Trinity Lutheran, Good Shepherd UCC, St. John’s Lutheran, Calvary UCC of Barto, and Christ Lutheran Church.

CROP was established in 1947 as a response to massive hunger in post-war Europe and Asia. CROP, which originally stood for “Christian Rural Overseas Program,” continues to be a ministry of Church World Service, an ecumenical organization.