FORT SMITH (KFSM)- More than 200 people laced up their running shoes to help end veteran homelessness.
The third annual Honor & Duty 5K Race kicked off at 7:30 a.m Saturday (June 27) at Wells Lake in Chaffee Crossing. Organizers tell 5NEWS, between 18 to 20 percent of local veterans experience homelessness. In effort to reduce this statistic, all proceeds raised from the event will go to Next Step Homeless Services.
“We’ve had lots of volunteers here, and I think that one thing that’s special about this is that we’re almost to July 4th, and it’s nice to do something for patriots,” volunteer Jo Carson said.
Executive Director Amy Sherrill said around 125 people participated last year. Next Step Homeless Services operates the Fort Smith Buddy home, which is a transitional supportive home focusing on veterans.
