Horsham Plans to Freeze for Those in Need

Jon Waxman set out to “get the whole community together.”

And, by the participation on the organization end of Horsham’s first-ever December 5K, it would seem that Waxman, owner of Lee’s Hoagie House locations in Horsham and Abington, succeeded.

“I wanted to get involved with the community,” Waxman told Patch. “I didn’t know what to do.”

But, Mark Hudson, Horsham Township’s Parks and Recreation Department director did.

“I always wanted to do a 5K, but never knew how to do it,” Hudson said.

With insight from Hatboro Area YMCA Executive Director Gary Chamberlain, as well as representatives of Fleet Feet Sports, Horsham is running with its community outreach effort, the Freezer 5K run and one-mile walk. The title of the Dec. 16 event holds a double meaning, according to organizers.

Aimed at “filling the freezer” of Horsham families in need, Hudson said the intent is to try to provide “enough food to help them out.” 

To date, Hudson said 65 participants have signed up and he’s hoping for 300 total. Since most, if not all 5Ks are over by December, Hudson said the Horsham event, which begins and ends at Simmons Elementary School and continues along the PECO Power Line Trail, should have little competition.

“That’s the theory,” Hudson said. “Runners are still looking to run.”

Horsham Police Lt. Jon Clark, who has helped out with traffic during other 5Ks at Simmons, said the “snow or shine” event’s intent is to “give back to the community.”

Clark said organizers are teaming with the Greater Horsham Chamber of Commerce for help in identifying families in need. Clark said he hopes the event raises enough money to help five to 10 families.

“We’re going to see what the needs are,” Clark said, adding that help could come in the way of filling someone’s oil tank. “Just something that’ll make it easier on them.”

For more information on the Horsham Freezer 5K run and one-mile walk, click here to visit Patch’s events listing, or see the attached PDF.