New Bedford PACE Walk Raises Awareness for Food Insecurity

Everyone knows there are big charity walks that happen in big cities like Boston, but this weekend, something just as meaningful is happening right here at home in New Bedford.

On Sunday morning, a group from PACE Inc. is stepping up to take part in the Walk for Hunger, all to raise awareness about food insecurity and support local families who are struggling.

Instead of making the trip to Boston, the team decided to bring the mission local, making it easier for more people to get involved and be part of something impactful right here on the SouthCoast.

Taking the Walk Local in New Bedford

PACE staff and supporters will meet at Hazelwood Park at 9 a.m. on Sunday before heading out on a roughly three-mile walk that loops through the South End, including Fort Taber and the surrounding beach area.

For Alicia Dillard, who works in PACE’s finance department and is celebrating her 26th year with the organization, this walk is about more than just the steps. It’s about showing up for the community.

“It’s definitely a feel-good kind of job,” she said. “Helping people who are in need is what I love most about my job.” This isn’t just a small group effort either. Around 18 people are expected to take part, with ages ranging from toddlers in strollers to grandparents in their 60s.

Why This Matters More Than Ever

PACE has become one of the most visible and impactful organizations in the New Bedford area when it comes to helping families, especially those facing food insecurity, and Dillard has seen that growth firsthand. From her early days as a Head Start student and later a single parent receiving support, to now working within the organization, she’s watched PACE evolve into a network of programs that all work together to help people stay afloat.

READ MORE: New Bedford’s PACE Inc. Celebrates Over 40 Years of Fighting Poverty

“It’s just us, a big team working all together, trying to get the word out,” she said.

Anyone Can Join the Walk

One of the best parts about this event: you don’t have to be a runner. You don’t even have to be part of PACE. If you can walk, you can join.

The group plans to keep things light and welcoming, even bringing a speaker along for some music to keep the energy up along the way. Whether you want to walk the full route, jog it, or just show up and support, you’re invited. If you’d like to participate, you can sign up through Project Bread, or make a direct donation through PACE to ensure more of the funds stay local.

At the end of the day, it’s about awareness and making sure no one in New Bedford goes hungry.