Several Austin groups are getting ready to run to promote healthy food donations.

Mower Refreshed is partnering to host the first Harvest 5K walk/run at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Todd Park Pavilion. Organizers aim to raise awareness and support of healthy food donations to county-wide food shelves. All proceeds raised will go to local food shelves.

Understanding that those utilizing the food shelves are often some of our most vulnerable community members, who lack access to healthy options has fueled community volunteers to raise awareness, food and money through the event scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 8.

Entry fee is $20 and a healthy food donation. The food is to be given on the day of the race. Registration is now on the day of the race 7:30-8:30 a.m. with start time at 9 a.m. at the northwest pavilion (just south of the softball fields). The Austin Salvation Army will be serving hot chocolate and Austin Farmers Market will be set up to sell fresh produce. Winona State-Riverland nursing students will provide information on area food shelf needs and how to donate.

The event is sponsored by Mayo Clinic Health System Albert Lea and Austin, Mower County Statewide Health Improvement Program, Salvation Army, and the YMCA of Austin.

To download a registration brochure and ideas on healthy food donations visit www.mowerrefreshed.org/healthier-choices/ or stop by the front desk at the Austin YMCA.