There's a critical need for food assistance in the community, and it's especially deep this time of year. Combine that with the importance of everyone's physical, emotional and mental health during the pandemic, and the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County (MPO) has, according to Iowa's News Now, organized a program to maintain the community's well-being in all those areas as well as bring awareness to the area's trail system.

For those with the motivation and energy to brave the chill in the air this fall and winter for a good cause, you can participate in "Trails to Table".

The public is invited to walk, bike or run the over 100-miles of trails (not all at once) with the goal of raising $10,000. The food banks that will benefit are the CommUnity Food Bank in Iowa City, the Coralville Community Food Pantry, and the North Liberty Community Food Pantry. Here's how it works:

  • Follow the MPO on Facebook and Instagram for photos, videos, and links to maps that will feature trails and routes throughout the metro,
  • Donate to Trails to Table through the Community Foundation of Johnson County; money will be distributed to the three area food pantries.
  • Join in the challenge by riding, walking, or jogging metro trails;
  • Post photos of your favorite area trails (or trails that you have decided to try because of the challenge) with "#Trails2Table".
  • Encourage friends to get out on the trails and participate as well. If you do not follow social media as some choose not to, you can still participate by checking out the area trails map online.
Enter your number to get our free mobile app

Here are some tips for self-care during the pandemic:

More From 104-5 KDAT