Hammond community members gathered to support a local non-profit organization in an annual 5K race.

The 2019 Reindeer Run took place on Dec. 7 at Cate Square Park. The event featured a 1-mile run and a 5K race around the university. Several vendors from organizations and businesses around the Hammond area offered food, souvenirs and activities to the participants.

After the 5K race, runners and their families also enjoyed a holiday-themed after party at Cate Square Park.

All proceeds raised during the race went towards the Restoration House Pregnancy Resource Center, a non-profit organization based in Hammond that provides resources and assistance to women in pregnancy crisis situations.

April Bell, the director of the Restoration House, explained how the annual event came to be and why it is put on every year.

“This 5K race was started about seven years ago to benefit Restoration House,” said Bell. “It is just a fun event for the whole family. We have a bunch of vendors and a lot of great food out here such as jambalaya. It is just a fun, Christmas-themed event that you can bring your family to and enjoy together.”

Bell also explained how the Restoration House uses the funds raised from the annual event.

“We use the money raised here to help women that need baby supplies,” shared Bell. “We also use it to help fund and maintain the various resources we provide such as free pregnancy tests. This fundraiser helps us run our business.”

Cody Stevens, a Hammond community member, participated in the race and shared why he decided to run the 5K.

“All the proceeds go to a good cause,” said Stevens. “It’s helping out the community, helping out the parish, and it is a real fun and family-orientated race. It is just a fun time for everybody.”