The Winston‑Salem/Forsyth County CROP Hunger Walk returns to downtown on Oct. 18, offering residents a chance to support local food‑assistance ministries while enjoying a short, family‑friendly walk.
Event details
Check‑in begins at 1:30 p.m. at Corpening Plaza, 237 W. First St., and the walk starts at 2:30 p.m. The 1.34‑mile route begins and ends at the plaza, making it accessible for participants of all ages and abilities.
Those unable to walk can register as a “Spirit Walker,” set up a personal fundraising page and collect donations from friends, family or coworkers. The walk’s organizers also allow groups to choose an alternate route, a neighborhood path, or even a church parking lot, provided they notify the organizers in advance.
Where the money goes
One‑quarter of every dollar raised stays in Forsyth County, split evenly between Crisis Control Ministry and Sunnyside Ministry. The remaining 75 % is directed to Church World Service, the national partner that coordinates the CROP Hunger Walk network.
In practical terms, for every $100 raised, $12.50 goes to each local agency and $75 supports the broader effort.
Local partners
Crisis Control Ministry operates client‑choice pantries in Winston‑Salem and Kernersville, allowing families to select groceries and household essentials that meet their specific needs. In 2025 the ministry served 16,536 individuals and distributed 371,201 pounds of food. Eligibility is determined through a brief interview and documentation of household circumstances. The Winston‑Salem office can be reached at 336‑724‑7453; the Kernersville office at 336‑996‑5401.
Sunnyside Ministry, founded in Winston‑Salem in 1978 as a Moravian Church nonprofit, provides food, clothing, emergency financial assistance, financial‑literacy classes and scholarships. Its pantry at 319 Haled St. offers monthly assistance to qualifying households, and an Emergency Food Assistance Program is available for those in immediate need. Sunnyside’s financial‑assistance services cover portions of Forsyth County in ZIP codes 27107 and 27127, as well as northern Davidson County. Applicants must complete an interview; questions can be directed to 336‑724‑7558.
National impact
Church World Service reports that more than 400 CROP Hunger Walks raised $6.8 million nationwide in 2025, with about $1.7 million flowing to over 800 local hunger agencies. The organization says the effort supports agriculture, clean‑water access, disaster response and training that helps families earn a living.
Community involvement
Grace Presbyterian Church, a historic Black congregation on Carver School Road, has added the Oct. 18 walk to its October calendar. The church, founded in 1907, emphasizes education, family support and youth mentoring as part of its community mission.
Participants are encouraged to bring a water bottle; water cups and portable toilets will be provided. Walkers should check the event website for any route changes before heading out.
How to register
Registration is available through the local walk website at cropwalkforsyth.org. Team captains can collect donations online or in person, and all contributions should be turned in by Nov. 6.
Residents who need immediate food assistance are urged to contact Crisis Control Ministry or Sunnyside Ministry directly rather than waiting for the walk day.
Original reporting: Winston-Salem Chronicle — read the source article.
