Hundreds Show Up on Short Notice for 'Relay for Relief' Fundraiser

In the wake of the cancellation of the New York City Marathon, a group of local runners were inspired to organize a “Relay for Relief” run/walk at Jean Cochran Park in Peconic to raise money and collected essential goods for those hit hardest during Hurricane Sandy.

And with less than 24 hours to get the word out, the event drew over 200 people Sunday morning and raised hundreds of dollars for relief efforts.

“I’m surprised but very happy — I was worried we’d make 50 bucks and get five cans of food,” said co-organizer Jill Schroeder. “It just felt good to get out and do something today.”

Suggested donation to participate was $10, but Schroeder said that many gave much more than that individually. Organizers were inspired by a group from Staten Island that are running their own 5K on the island, which was organized in protest to the New York City marathon before it was canceled Saturday morning, to raise disaster relief funds. Facebook, Twitter and Patch were used to get the word out as fast as possible on Saturday.

Amy and Eugene Baily got word of the relay Saturday on Facebook and traveled to Peconic from Jamesport with their four young children, all of whom ran around the track for the cause.

“It’s better than sitting at home feeling bad because you have power and others don’t have anything," Amy said.

Click here to join the Relay for Relief on Facebook.

The group will also be continuing to accept goods at the following business until Nov. 10:
JABS
605 Pike Street
Mattituck NY 11952

Financial donations can also be made here:
http://igg.me/p/269036?a=1706447