Food Bank Plans Hikes Against Hunger

FOOD Share Inc., the food bank of Ventura County, is asking people to take a hike next month to help fight hunger.

On Feb. 22 and 23, FOOD Share will sponsor two hikes against hunger--a 30-mile overnight trek from Ventura to Santa Barbara and a 10-mile day trip to Hobson County Park north of Ventura.

“This is our sixth year,” said hike leader Bill Mitchell. “It’s a lovely hike.”

Both hikes start at San Buenaventura State Beach on East Harbor Boulevard. The hike to Santa Barbara includes stops at Hobson County Park, Carpinteria, Summerland and Montecito. Hikers pay for their own meals and, if going to Santa Barbara, overnight accommodations in Carpinteria.

Transportation will be provided from Hobson County Park back to the state beach, and from the park to Bates Road for the 30-mile hikers.

Refreshments will be provided, and FOOD Share will also have a support vehicle on the course to assist hikers, Mitchell said.

Hikers are asked to enlist sponsors who will donate a specified amount of money per mile. Those who turn in a minimum of $50 at the beginning of the hike will receive a T-shirt.

To sponsor hikers or to participate in the hikes, call Bill or Nancy Mitchell at 984-9210 or Anthoula Randopoulos at 983-7100.