The Atlanta Community Food Bank is set to host the 42nd annual Hunger Walk Run on Sunday, March 15, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. at The Home Depot Backyard in Atlanta. The hybrid 5K event, which also offers a virtual option, aims to address the highest demand for food assistance since the pandemic, according to the organization. Registration and donation opportunities are currently open.
Each participant contributes significantly to hunger relief: every registered walker helps provide 90 meals, while each runner helps provide 120 meals for neighbors in need. Since its inception in 1984, the event has raised over $16 million, enough to supply more than 48 million meals. The Atlanta Community Food Bank, the Southeast's largest food bank, works with more than 700 nonprofit partners across 29 counties to distribute food to families, children, and seniors.
Kyle Waide, President & CEO of the Atlanta Community Food Bank, emphasized the event's importance. "Hunger Walk Run is a highly anticipated event that rallies thousands from our community to take steps toward fighting hunger," he said. "Every person who participates, whether on-site or virtually, helps make a difference, and their support enables the Food Bank and other benefitting organizations to connect our neighbors in need with nutritious food and vital resources."
The family-friendly event welcomes participants of all ages and abilities, who may join as individuals, families, groups, or teams. Festivities include music, food vendors, warm-ups, and a dedicated Kids Zone with bounce houses, slides, interactive characters, and age-appropriate learning opportunities. The event proceeds rain or shine.
For those unable to attend in person, the virtual option allows participation from anywhere, anytime. Participants can walk in their neighborhoods, on treadmills, or even spin on bikes. The event page features outdoor trails for inspiration. Organizers encourage participants to share their experiences on social media by posting photos, tagging the Food Bank (@ACFB on Instagram and Twitter), and using the hashtag #HWR2026.
Online registration is available through 12 p.m. on Friday, March 13, with rates of $30 for walkers, $40 for runners, $25 for virtual participants who pick up their shirts, and $32 for virtual participants who want shirts mailed. Walk-up registration will be available for an additional $5 per entry type. For more information, visit the Atlanta Community Food Bank website.
