Freeze for Food

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press release: For 40 years, the Returned Peace Corps Volunteers of Wisconsin-Madison have promoted their winter Freeze for Food run/walk as an event that “never cancels due to weather.”  Even a pandemic won’t cancel this outdoor event that attracts runners and walkers undeterred by Wisconsin’s nippy weather as we go virtual.

“Year after year, we’ve had a loyal turn-out of runners, and just as importantly, sponsors have generously contributed to support refugees,” says race organizer Madeline Uraneck. “This year some of Madison’s refugee families have endured lay-offs. Others are essential workers and several, including entire families, have suffered from COVID.” Proceeds from the 2021 event will support Open Doors for Refugees, a non-profit group dedicated to making refugees feel welcome and integrated within the Madison community.

With a nod to the pandemic, this year’s event is still outdoors, but runners and walkers can choose their own 5K or 10K routes. When finished, they are encouraged to post their times and selfies on the Freeze for Food Facebook Group or on Instagram using the hashtag #FreezeForFood. “We hope to see the faces of runners and walkers, maybe against a background that shows where they ran or trained,” says race organizer, Kate Schachter. Regular runners may choose to self-report their times on the It’s Race Time site to be able to compare their time this year with times posted from past years.

Registration is already open at It’s Race Time (signup.itsracetime.com/), and “Pods” of three family members or friends will receive discounted registration fees. Sign up by Monday, February 15, 2021, 11:59 p.m., for discounted early-registration fees of: $20 for individuals, $50 for “pods” of three family or friends, and $10 for students.  Registration after February 15 is $30 (individuals), $75 (pods) and $10 students.

Race organizers hope that cabin fever, a spirit of beating the pandemic, and concern for Madison’s refugee population will inspire people to register. This winter, Open Doors for Refugees has scheduled Women’s Winter Walks to introduce newcomers, many originally from warmer climates, to the fun and importance of outdoor exercise. “Walking together in the cold not only teaches a new skill but also builds friendships,” says Uraneck.

Since 1982, Freeze for Food has raised over $102,000 for non-profit organizations that focus on food security. In 2020, RPCVs of Wisconsin donated $6,900 in race proceeds to Open Doors for Refugees.

Freeze for Food is celebrated in Madison as part of Peace Corps Week, which is celebrated nationally February 28 – March 6, 2021. This year commemorates Peace Corps’ 60^th anniversary since its founding by U.S. President John F. Kennedy.