Runners and walkers will have the opportunity to raise awareness and funding for Operation Warm Heart during the ninth annual Race for Warmth on Sunday, Jan. 29.
The Clark Public Utilities customer-funded program helps families in financial crisis pay heating bills. All of the proceeds will go to support people in need, stated a news release from CPU.
The timed 10k and 5k walk/run will start and finish at the Clark Public Utilities downtown location at 1200 Fort Vancouver Way in Vancouver.
A free race for children between the ages of 3 and 8 will kick off the event at 8:30 a.m. Registration is encouraged but not required.
Registration for this year’s Race for Warmth costs $30 and includes a long-sleeve performance shirt and race bag. Pre-registration is recommended and is available online through midnight on Jan. 28 at raceforwarmth.com. Same-day registration begins at 7 a.m. on Jan. 29 and runs through 8:30 a.m. It costs $40 and a shirt and race bag are not guaranteed.
The Race for Warmth is produced and hosted by Clark Public Utilities with support from local businesses, which include Area Heating & Cooling, New Tradition Homes, Columbia Credit Union, Burgerville, NW Natural, Northwest Personal Training, and WHY Racing Events, among others.
“Every participant can receive a detailed race receipt with their official time and ranking per age group,” stated the release. “Stick around for the onsite after party at Clark Public Utilities with food and beverages provided by event partners.”
Operation Warm Heart has provided more than $4.4 million to nearly 16,700 customers in financial crisis since its creation in 1985.
The donor-funded program helps people in need who may not qualify for other government programs.
“For more than 30 years, Clark Public Utilities customers and employees have generously funded Operation Warm Heart,” stated the release.
Tax-deductible donations can be made year-round at any Clark Public Utilities location, by phone at 360-992-3000 or online at raceforwarmth.com using the “Sleep in to Stay Warm” option.
