EASLEY — United Christian Ministries will host the annual UCM Feet for Heat 5K on Saturday, Oct. 24, in downtown Easley.

The purpose is twofold: raising awareness of the emergency heating assistance provided by UCM each winter and raising funds to support these critical services. Sponsors and supporters throughout the community make Feet for Heat possible each year.

“Obviously, we want to raise money, but we also want Feet for Heat to help get the word out about UCM heating assistance services. Who among us doesn’t know someone who has struggled to make ends meet during a difficult time?” said Teresa Nash, UCM Executive Director. “Those of us with full time employment and paid sick leave may not realize the plight of the many hourly wage earners in our community.

Many are making ends meet, but one bout of the flu and lost wages creates a hurdle. We want to help them clear that hurdle and get back on their feet.” The cold, winter months are especially hard on the limited resources of many senior adults on low, fixed incomes. “Amazingly, we’ll see senior adults who’ve been managing month to month on Social Security income well under a thousand dollars a month, that is until their heating costs rise beyond their reach”, said Nash.

The event will be held in downtown Easley on the South 1st Street side of Old Market Square. UCM welcomes all to lace up their shoes and use their “Feet for Heat!” A one-mile fun run/walk is available as well as the certified 5k route through Easley. Registration is available online at www.ucmpc.org. The entry fee for the 5K is $30, and the One Mile is $25. Event-day registration begins at 8 a.m., with the 5K start at 9 a.m. followed by the One Mile. Medals, awards, lots of door prizes, and t-shirts (while supplies last) will be enjoyed by participants. Lizz Ryals, of iHeart Media MY102.5, will be emceeing and playing some great music to get the crowd warmed up and ready.

For more information, contact Teresa Nash via email at teresa@goodsamalliance.org or call 855-0853, ext. 33.