Calling all runners! The Warwick Fire Department is hosting a 5K race and 1 mile walk this Sunday, October 23 at Goddard Memorial State Park, and for a good cause.

“The Warwick Firefighters 5K Road Race and 1 Mile Walk was established to promote the importance of firefighter health and wellness,” reads the race’s mission statement. “Our vision encourages fire service members, family, and friends to participate in fitness programs which promote better lifestyles.”

All proceeds from the race will be donated to Westbay Community Action, a hallmark charitable organization in Kent County that has programs to help families in need with food, utilities, health, safety, and education.

“We wanted to give to something close to home,” said Lieutenant George Lusignan of Engine 5, who said he’s seen firsthand how Westbay benefits the Warwick community.

“Westbay Community Action is beyond grateful to the Warwick Firefighters for choosing us as the recipient of the proceeds from the event,” said Westbay CEO Paul Salera. “This money will help us to continue to assist the more than 10,000 households we serve on an annual basis. Westbay would like to thank George Lusignan and the rest of the Warwick Firefighters for all they do on a daily basis with keeping the community safe.”

The race came together through the efforts of the Fire Department, sponsors, and even reunited Warwick firefighters of the past. Retired firefighters James Campbell and Bob Dyer contributed by designing race t-shirts and sponsoring via South County Dermatology, respectively.

Lusignan said the event has lots of “tremendous and outstanding” sponsors that raised $12,000 to put the event on. Sponsors included The Trap Brew Pub and Grill, Coastway Community Bank, South County Dermatology, Waddell & Reed, Aflac, Pro Fitness, Team Larsson Personal Trainers, Wave Federal Credit Union, Avellino Construction and Property Management, Best Tile, Warwick Firefighters Relief Association, Warren E. Nichols Insurance Agency, Local 2748, LifeFitness, BFF Grooming, Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island, and Pappas Physical and Hand Therapy.

After the race, participants will be treated to a buffet at The Trap. There will also be entertainment including raffles, cornhole, and other games at the celebration.

The race already has 260 people registered, and those who want to participate but haven’t registered yet can do so and find more information at www.warwickfirefighters5k.com. Race packet pick up and on site registration is from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday at the Trap. Race day registration is $35 (cash or checks only) and will be held from 8:00 a.m.-9:30 a.m. The race itself will begin at 10 a.m.