Winners of the Hope for Healing 5K run. From left to right: Lydia Dylan, Emily Gunther, Andrew McJanus. (Photo by Sarah Giglio)

NORWICH - This Saturday, the Chenango County Child Advocacy Center (CAC) held its first ever Hope for Healing 5K run. The event yielded an exceptional turnout, and raised more money than the CAC’s original goal.

According to Joanne Smith, the Program Coordinator at CAC, over 60 people registered online, and more registered in person that morning. The event drew participants of all ages, and some runners even brought their dogs along.

The fundraiser and 5K was held to raise awareness of child abuse, as well as raise money for medical equipment necessary for exams of child victims of physical abuse.

“We get calls from CPS and law enforcement when there is a report of child abuse,” said Smith. “We conduct child friendly interviews for the children, and we provide services for the family because we know this can be a very traumatic time for families and the children.”

The response from community members was so vast that the fundraising goal was reached before the 5K was held, with more donations coming in Saturday morning.

“Because of the overwhelming support of this community, we already raised the money before the 5K today. What a testimony to this community,” said Smith.

Participants in the race stated they registered because they wanted to raise awareness, support the cause, and because they felt it was important people know about these issues.