Over 35,000 `Walk for Hunger'

BOSTON--More than 35,000 people participated in the 20th annual Walk for Hunger yesterday, trekking 20 miles through Greater Boston to raise a record $3.5 million for the hungry in Massachusetts and around the world.

Chris Wiseman, 21, of Winchester and a veteran of last year's walk, guided her friend Maura Lawler, 20, of Wellesley, on the five-hour course through Boston, Brookline, Newton and Cambridge.

"It was really fun," Lawler said. "Besides, it's a great way for you to help others that are less fortunate," she added.

The Walk for Hunger began as part of a national effort in 1969. The initial event raised $26,000 in Boston. In 1975, Project Bread began organizing the local walk to help fund emergency homeless shelters and relief efforts.

Walk for Hunger spokesperson Denise Goros said walkers recorded a record $3.5 million in pledges, which topped last year's effort by 35 percent. While Goros couldn't predict how much of the pledged money the organization would actually receive, she said they usually get 80 to 90 percent from sponsors.

Participants raise money by canvassing relatives, friends and colleagues, to sponsor their walk. Pledges are ordinarily collected after the event, and mailed to Project Bread.

The first truly spring-like day of the year--with temperatures hovering near 70 yesterday--provided a perfect setting for a family stroll along the Charles River and through the Boston Public Garden.

"I usually don't get involved," said Aurora Nunes of North Attleboro, who walked a five-mile circuit with her five-year-old son Erin. "I just recently found out about it. I particularly like [the fact] that I can help out without a lot of work."

Parents pushing strollers, elderly participants, as well as practiced walkers who average a few miles a day were cheered on by tots waving pompons and a group of circus clowns urging them to "Sign up for another 20!" as they crossed the finish line.

At the end of the circuit, a country music band entertained weary walkers as they lounged on Boston Common. The hungry hustled past with hot dogs and Cokes, while others limped to the first-aid tent to tend to their blisters.

Annie Wilcox, 42, of Boston, looked a little ragged as she completed her fourth walk in four years. "I just like to do it because it's good exercise," she said.