Loyola University Chicago Medical Students Part of 32nd Annual Oak Park Crop Walk

Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine staff and students put on their walking shoes to help raise funds to help the estimated 805 million people around the world who are undernourished. Coordinated by the Health Sciences Division Ministry Department and the Stritch Student Wellness Advisory Group, participants took part in the 32nd Annual Oak Park Hunger Walkathon West Crop Walk, a community effort to stock local food pantry shelves and fight hunger worldwide.

“The Crop Walk was a perfect example of community members joining together to work for a common cause. As a medical student, I feel called to use my gifts and talents to help others, both within the healthcare setting and the broader community. Specifically, the participation of Loyola indicates our commitment to lead by example, and care for our neighbors in need,” said first-year medical student, and class president, Patrick Kramer.

More than 30 community congregations, schools, and organizations were part of the annual event that took place on May 3.  Loyola students and staff were part of the more than 340 people who walked and ran 5.3 miles to raise awareness and funds to rid the world of hunger.

"For me, the crop walk was a beautiful manifestation of a community joining together for the care of its own.  At times it can be overwhelming to think of all of the need in the world, but the walk reminded me of the difference we can make when we unite our faith and energy towards a common goal.  I am grateful to have shared this experience with fellow Loyoloans and believe that it was a great way for Stritch to live out the Jesuit mission of justice for all,” said Kristin Kalita, fourth-year medical student.

All proceeds benefit organizations working to feed the hungry including several organizations in the community such as Forest Park Food Pantry, St. Eulalia Quinn Center Food Pantry, and Proviso Food Pantry.

“I really enjoyed watching so many people come together for a common cause, as well as being able to be a part of that myself. It's great to see the Stritch family play an active role in the surrounding community and be so invested in helping others, particularly beyond the health care setting,” said Regan Rogers, first-year medical student.