The gun fires and 7,582 people take off on the Drumstick Dash. With the slogan "Move Your Feet So Others Can Eat", walkers, runners, and even dogs come out for the Rescue Mission's largest fundraiser.
"Just a sea of people. We're so grateful and so thankful for everyone who came out to support the rescue mission,” said Director of Development Lee Clark.
As runners turn the corner, they're greeted with some motivational music as they make their way through downtown Roanoke and pass the City Market building.
The Rescue Mission raised about 180-thousand dollars from the Drumstick Dash, but Clark says that's only a drop in the bucket for what it takes to stay open.
"Our annual utilities budget is 400 thousand dollars,” said Clark.
Clark says the money they raise from the Drumstick Dash is needed more than ever as they're seeing record numbers of people staying in the shelter each night
"People who are losing their housing, people who never thought they'd need help from emergency shelter are coming to us now for help,” said Clark.
He says they average about 360 people per night in the shelter, up from 300 per night two years ago.
Every year the dash has grown from just 1,700 participants in its first year in 2006. Clark says this kind of support means a lot to people at the mission.
"They had tears in their eyes when they looked out and saw that sea of people because we're here everyday 365 days a year, 24 hours a day to help meet the need and it's rewarding and very gratifying to see so much support from people in this region,” said Clark.
Runners cross the finish line, helping provide those less fortunate with a hot meal and a warm place to stay, giving everyone something to be thankful for this year.
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