For the past 20 years, the Osceola Council on Aging (OCOA) has hosted our March for Meals St. Patrick’s 5k Run/ Walk fundraiser. The annual event increases awareness of senior hunger, while raising money for Meals on Wheels (MOW), and all the social service initiatives we manage for Osceola County.
With more than 500 participants and at least 30 teams from Osceola, Orange, Brevard, and even Lake County in 2024, we are expecting an even larger turnout next month, encompassing more Central Florida communities.
The event, scheduled for Saturday, March 15 at Kissimmee Lakefront Park will host runners and walkers of all ages. Individual participants are welcome to take part, along with groups of five or more for the “Team Challenge” category, with special recognition going to the “Most Spirited” and “Largest Team.” Everyone is encouraged to wear their green themed attire to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.
Cash prizes will be given for the top three ‘overall’ male and female finishers, plus awards for the top 10 male and female finishers and the top male and female senior runners, for those aged 65 and up. Children seven and under can also enjoy a kids dash after the 5k event.
On-site registration begins at 7 a.m. and the race kicks off at 8, but the all-day event will include post-race celebrations, vendor booths, music, entertainment, and an all afternoon ‘lively’ green themed St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Registration is $30 for adults (13 and older) and $25 for children (12 and under), with early registration through March 1, 2025.
In an exciting new twist for our 20th March for Meals anniversary, the OCOA is introducing our first-ever Tesla fundraiser. With only 2,000 tickets available, priced at a $100 donation each, the Tesla drawing will take place after the race at 9:30 am. The winner can drive away in a brand-new 2025 Tesla or take $30,000 in cash. To add even more fun and anticipation, 65-inch TV’s will be given away every Monday, to one randomly drawn Tesla ticket donor. By running, walking, or simply purchasing a raffle ticket, you will help financially support nutritional assistance and other social service programs to hundreds of isolated, homebound, Central Florida seniors.
“March is an important time for us to come together to ensure that Meals on Wheels is there for our senior neighbors in need,” said Ellie Hollander, President and CEO of Meals on Wheels America.
Eligibility requirements for MOW include those who are 60 and older, disabled, homebound, or have no caregiver to help with meal preparation. Costs for meals are formulated on income and can vary, based on a sliding scale.
The OCOA is excited to host this 20th anniversary event to support the financial needs of MOW and our extensive social service initiatives. We thank the many MOW teams who have always supported this mission and the thousands of volunteers across Central Florida who are on the front lines each day, delivering meals to keep our elder Americans fed.
So, please come out and walk, run, put a team together, or simply cheer on the efforts of everyone else, and support our March for Meals St. Patrick’s event to support our community, while also seizing the opportunity to drive home in a Tesla. To register visit www.osceolagenerations.org or call 407-846-8532.
