Race for Home 2010

ST. LOUIS (November 2, 2010) – Elliott Krejci has been gearing up for this year’s Race for Home. He’s volunteered with Peter & Paul Community Services for the past 6 years but this year marks the first time he will participate as a runner at the 6th annual 5K/10K run walk.

What’s unique about this year’s race is that Elliott will be running alongside the downtown homeless encampment known as Hopeville. Furthermore, he will compete with Labon Smith, who also plans to run the 5K, but is currently homeless and living near the encampment in an abandoned building.

There are an estimated 60 people currently living in tents and makeshift lean-tos along the waterfront on the near north side. Some of those individuals once lived in the tunnel under Tucker Boulevard until forced to move out last spring due to safety concerns. Others have joined the encampment since that time sighting a lack of available housing and services.

Race for Home participants have been asked to donate canned goods and warm clothing this year as part of supplies to be passed out at the race. An anonymous donor is supplying additional items including socks, t-shirts, hoodies, gloves, toiletries and blankets.

Organizers expect 300 participants this year and more if the weather is nice. Proceeds from Race for Home will be used to support Peter & Paul Community Services’ three transitional housing programs, its meals program and emergency shelter.

Date/Time: Saturday, November 6, 2010 8:00 a.m. Run / 8:30 a.m. Walk

Venue: 21 O’Fallon Street 63102

About Peter & Paul Community Services:
Peter & Paul Community Services is the nonprofit agency committed to the most difficult-to-help homeless population - those who are chronically homeless. Cases involving severe mental illness, HIV/AIDS, or drug or alcohol addiction for those who have refused or been denied help by other programs. Begun in 1981 as a seasonal shelter, Peter & Paul Community Services (PPCS) today manages three transitional housing programs, an emergency shelter, and a meals programs serving over 1,500 unduplicated clients annually. PPCS offers shelter, food, psychiatric care, job skills training, help for chemical addictions, and a welcoming community for those who are lonely. Over 1,000 volunteers donate approximately 8,000 hours of service each year. More on the web at www.ppcsinc.org.

THANK YOU

BIG RIVER RUNNING!