LAKEVILLE — This year will mark a decade and about 30 charitable miles walked for Ellen Camacho, a Lakeville resident who has participated in the Walk for Hunger since 2015. 

Camacho will be one of over 3,500 participants on May 4 to walk the 3-mile loop around the Boston Common raising money to provide food security for families and children across Massachusetts. 

The non-profit organization, Project Bread, has put on the event annually since 1969 and raised millions to provide food for families in need in that time. 

“It is becoming more and more difficult for people to afford enough to eat,” said Erin McAleer, President and CEO of Project Bread. “One in five families with kids are worried about where their next meal will come from. The Walk for Hunger is our opportunity to make an immediate difference in the lives of thousands of our neighbors.

Camacho, a Payroll Coordinator for the Old Rochester Regional School District, is returning to Boston this year to take part in Project Bread’s Walk for Hunger as an individual walker. A top fundraiser since 2015, Camacho walks to honor her late friend Sheila, a fellow church member who inspired her to get involved in the cause. 

Sheila walked well into her 80s, and when she stepped back, Camacho picked up where she left off—continuing the tradition. Now in her mid-60’s, Camacho has raised nearly $8,000 since she began lacing up for the cause. 

“I love that Project Bread is there to support those who need help—it’s so important in the time we are living in,” Camacho said. “I’m excited to return to Boston and be part of this amazing community again.”

Donate directly to Camacho’s fundraiser at https://give.projectbread.org/fundraiser/6274043. To register as a participant for Project Bread’s Walk for Hunger, or to support a walker or team with a donation, visit give.projectbread.org/walk.