Hundreds Take Part In Annual Turkey Trot To Help Families In Need
By Mike Dougherty
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The 22nd annual Turkey Trot stepped off in Chestnut Hill Thursday morning. It's a five-mile run to raise money to feed families in need.
About 1,000 runners were on hand to burn some calories before pigging out. Race founder Jim Maguire says it's come a long way in the past 22 years.
"We had eight people the first time we did it," he says. "And I won!"
Maguire says it's gratifying to see so many people supporting a cause he feels strongly about.
Money raised goes to Face to Face in Germantown, a non-profit that provided meals, counseling and education for needy families.
"This is tremendously important," says Mary Kay Meeks-Han, executive director of Face To Face. "It makes up a significant portion of our annual budget."
Runners say it's a great way to help their neighbors.
"Whenever you have a chance to do something that gives back a little bit, especially on Thanksgiving, that's the whole point of the day."
Jen Breznicky from Glenside says this is a family affair.
"We try to do a lot around the holidays that's more giving back," she says. "We have a lot and we have a lot to be thankful for."
Organizers are hoping to raise $200,000 for Face to Face.
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