UNION — An upcoming event will give local residents the opportunity to stay in shape while providing for needy children for Christmas.

The Bogansville United Methodist Church Angel Tree Missionary Outreach Project will host a 5K charity run/walk at 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 17. The run/walk will begin at the West Springs Community Center on Hwy. 215, and the course will run down the John Hart Road and back. A toy donation box will also be on site.

Church member Heather Lawson — who has been running for health and leisure for the past year and a half — suggested the idea to Angel Tree Project coordinator Amanda Fore, and from there Fore and Lawson worked together to bring the idea to fruition.

“We are putting this together in hopes that there is no needy child in Union County left unsponsored this Christmas,” Lawson said. “We pray that this event encourages many to get more involved in this charity and creates a memorable Christmas for a child in need.”

Lawson said the 5K was not decided upon until mid-October.

“We knew chances were that participation may be small since it was last minute, but we’ve been praying about it and passing the word around,” Lawson said.

Lawson also mentioned that the course for the run/walk is flat and beautiful and should provide enjoyable scenery for those who participate.

Around 30 participants have already pre-registered, and registration will begin around 8:15 a.m. on the day of the event.

Staff Writer Derik Vanderford can be reached at 864-427-1234, ext. 29, or by email at dvanderford@heartlandpublications.com.