Chase Challenge Raises $1.1 Million

Ten years ago, the Chase Family Foundations challenged participants in Foodshare’s “Walk Against Hunger” to bolster their fundraising efforts. The first 50 walkers to raise $500 or more would have their gift to Foodshare matched by the Chase family. The family’s challenge has now raised more than $1.1 million to fight hunger in Greater Hartford.

“We hoped to use our gift to encourage others to give, resulting in a more successful Walk Against Hunger and more support for Foodshare’s work for years to come,” said Cheryl Chase, executive vice president and general counsel of Chase Enterprise.

In the first year, the number of walkers raising $500 or more jumped from 24 to 41. Over the years, as participants caught on, the bar was raised to $600.

At this year’s event, held on May 3, 74 walkers made the match and collectively raised more than $100,000 for the 26th Annual Walk Against Hunger.

On June 15, a celebration was held at Foodshare’s Bloomfield distribution center, where, in addition to recognizing the Walk Against Hunger sponsors and participants, it was announced that the event raised $482,000, setting a new record.

MidState Medical Center received a grant from People’s United Community Foundation to benefit the hospital’s geriatric outreach program. The funds received will help support continuing health education and outreach to seniors throughout the communities of Meriden, Wallingford, Cheshire and Southington.

“We have a shared goal of focusing on the communities we serve, particularly the uninsured and underinsured,” said Tim Hodges, president of People’s United Community Foundation.

Easter Seals Greater Hartford Rehabilitation Center recently held its 22nd annual Crystal Ball to benefit the Breast Cancer Pathways Program, a rehabilitation program. Dr. Elizabeth W. Brady of Connecticut Surgical Group — Center for Breast Care, served as the honorary committee chair. Connie Weaver, senior vice president of marketing and communications for The Hartford, the presenting sponsor of the event, served as the honorary corporate chair. Ayelet Chozick of West Hartford and Martha Johnson of Avon served as co-chairs.