Residents in Topeka came together over the weekend for the annual Cranksgiving ride, a tradition that blends biking with giving back. Riders started their route at a popular local café and made their way to a grocery store, where they picked up food items to donate to local food programs. Others contributed money or dropped off nonperishable items before the ride began.
Volunteers say the need felt especially urgent this year because of recent changes to government assistance programs. Rider Sara O’Keeffe says participants hoped to collect as much food as possible, pointing out that food insecurity is affecting families across the country. She adds that giving matters, especially when so many people are struggling.
This was the thirteenth year for Cranksgiving and organizers hope it continues to grow. More than $400 in donations came in before the starting time, and although they won’t know the full weight of food collected until later this week, last year’s event brought in more than 1,000 pounds.
Source: WIBW