Kentwood hosting Valentine’s Day 5K

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Courtesy city of Kentwood

The city of Kentwood plans to host its fifth annual Valentine’s Dash 5K to benefit Little Free Pantry.

The 5K will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 12, on a combination of trails and paved pathways starting and ending at Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) branch at 4950 Breton Ave. SE. A route map is available online.

Proceeds for the race benefiting the Little Free Pantry will provide food and personal care items to those in need. Participants bringing a nonperishable food item or monetary donation for the pantry will be entered to win a special door prize.

Valentine’s Day-themed costumes are encouraged, and though the event is intended to be a fun run, the race will be chip timed, and awards will be given for the fastest overall runner in each group. An awards ceremony will follow the event in the library’s community room at approximately 12 p.m. and will include refreshments, candy, music and a photo booth.

“Our Valentine’s Dash 5K is a great way to kick off the holiday weekend and help foster or fuel a love for running, even in the winter months,” said Spencer McKellar, race organizer. “This course is great for first-time runners or walkers but will also provide a challenge to more experienced racers. All are invited to come out and join us. Bring a friend or a loved one, or meet someone new.”

People can register online for $30 through Feb. 11 and will receive a long-sleeved shirt and other swag, while supplies last. Those who sign up as a couple will save $5 on the registration fee, and those who register the day of the event will pay $35.

Kentwood’s first Little Free Pantry opened in 2017 at the Kentwood Activities Center at 355 48th St. SE. Last year, a second pantry was launched at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) branch.

More information on the pantry, including a list of suggested donations, is here.

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