The 3rd Annual Taylor Watford Foundation’s 5K Run/Walk for Hope was held Saturday in memory of McKenna Harris. The event was a huge success. It attracted 268 runners. More than $14,000 was raised through 35 sponsors. Both of the numbers are about double of last year’s. The run’s organizers were thrilled with the results.

“After Five years of holding events we are starting to see a consistent amount of the community coming together for our cause,” said Jade Watford, spokeswoman for the TWF.

TWF Board President Kyle Cullum thanked the hundreds of runners who gathered behind Brookland-Cayce High School to wait on the the race to start.

“Through your contributions, you are helping to save lives,” Cullum said. Watford then explained the work of TWF.

“We are humbled to be the ones spreading this message and leading the effort,” she said. “Your contribution will be used to continue getting individuals into rehab treatment programs and placed into Oxford House sober living homes.” Part of the TWF’s mission is listed below:

• To help with funding needed for individuals seeking rehab help
• To raise awareness about substance abuse
• To offer moral support for families who have been affected by substance abuse

First photo is the family of McKenna Harris who lost her life to an accidental overdose in the last year.