Former Police Chief to Run 200 Miles Across NJ to Fight Hunger & Food Insecurity

RIDGEWOOD, N.J. – On May 18, retired Fairview Police Chief and Run for Hope Foundation Founder Frank DelVecchio will embark on a 200-mile solo run across the State of New Jersey to fight hunger and food insecurity. DelVecchio will begin this multi-day venture at High Point State Park in Sussex County and make his way to New Jersey’s southernmost tip in Cape May.

Concurrently over the course of his run, the Run for Hope Foundation will partner with the Ridgewood YMCA from May 18-20th  to host three Days of Action to Fight Hunger and Food Insecurity where non-perishable food items, paper goods, and baby supplies will be collected. The Run for Hope Foundation website will also be accepting monetary contributions to be distributed to local pantries and youth programs across New Jersey.

In anticipation of the run, a “Pasta Night” fundraiser will take place on Tuesday, May 16th at 6:30 p.m. at the Ridgewood YMCA and will be open to the general public. Tickets will be available for purchase for $50 at the door with proceeds supporting local food efforts and youth programs. To enquire about being an event sponsor or for general questions, please email RunForHopeNJ@gmail.com.

You can follow Frank on his journey across NJ by visiting the Run for Hope Foundation’s Facebook page where he will post live broadcast updates. 

“I know it’s crazy to run 200 miles, but we need to continue to shine a light on food insecurity,” said Frank Delvecchio, Run for Hope Founder. “Several of our local pantries are still struggling to keep food on the shelves and need all the help they can get.”

“The Ridgewood Y is proud to partner with the Run For Hope Foundation to raise funds and create awareness for food insecurity throughout New Jersey,” said Ramon Hache, Ridgewood YMCA President and CEO.

The Run for Hope Foundation utilizes the sport of running or walking to raise funds for charitable causes. The Foundation has raised more than $150,000 and has supported organizations that benefit cancer research, first responders, the homeless, senior citizens, military families, domestic violence victims, and after-school programs for underserved communities. The Foundation is most well known for their annual September 11th run and bike ride which benefits 9/11 families. For more information about the Run for Hope Foundation, please visit www.RunforHopeFoundation.org.