WASI hosting 2024 Miles for Meals Fun Run, Walk and Stroll event

WASILLA — Wasilla Area Seniors Inc. (WASI) is hosting its annual Miles for Meals Fun Run, Walk, Stroll 5K event Saturday, June 22.

WASI CEO Marlene Munsell said that overall preparations are faring well for this year's event.

“We're ready,” Munsell said.

According to Munsell, the Miles for Meals event is their largest fundraising effort for the Meals on Wheels program which distributes 230 o 250 meals to seniors across the Mat-Su Valley daily. She said that the looming cloud of inflation affecting the price of food and gas hasn't deterred their mission.

“We have kept the program going even in the times right now that are pretty tough," Munsell said. “It warms up your heart knowing you can make a difference. We can't help everybody but we strive to help as manyseniors as we can.”

According to Munsell, over 100 people participated in the 2023 Miles for Meals event. She said it's a longstanding and laid back tradition that is cherished by WASI and the surrounding community that encourages participants to run, walk, stroll at their own pace.

“You do your own thing," Munsell said.

There will be a community barbecue held after the 5K where participants can enjoy food while socializing.

“I think the best part of it is just being one with the community and hanging out and having fun," Munsell said. “The community has supported us and we're grateful. I feel like we're making a difference.”

Those who cannot make it to the Miles for Meals event can still support WASI's Meals on Wheels program by making donations online.

The Miles for Mals event starts at 10 a.m. Those interested in participating can register online or at the event.

For more information about WASI, visit wasillaseniors.com.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com