19th Annual Run For Heroes Set For Oct 13 In Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, PA — The 19th annual Run for Heroes 5k Run and Walk, benefiting children of fallen Delaware County first responders will be held in Springfield in mid October.

The day begins at 7:30 a.m. with registration and the run steps off at 9 a.m. at the Springfield Township Municipal Complex, 50 Powell Road on Sunday, Oct. 13.

Registration costs $25 for individuals, $17 for Team Delco, $25 for individual teams, and $100 for group (five members only). Register here.

The event raises funds for the 5k benefit the Hero Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarships to the children of Delaware County police officers, firefighters and EMS personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Since 1977,the Delaware County Hero Scholarship Committee has raised nearly $600,000 and provided 35 young people with scholarships. Last year, the run raised $42,000.

"Sadly, Delaware County has not been spared these tragedies and we are proud of the fact that in those times, our county comes together as a united and caring community to support the families of those killed in the line of duty and their fellow first responders," said Councilman Mike Culp.

The scholarships not only provide monetary assistance, but are also a show of support from the community in honor of the parent lost while serving and protecting.

During the Sept. 25 County Council meeting Alexandra Chambers, daughter of fallen Chester Firefighter, Thomas Chambers and recipient of a scholarship spoke about the impact the Delaware County Hero Scholarship Fund has had on her.

She was a young child when she and her sister, Samantha lost their father as he was bravely serving with the Chester Fire Department at just 34 years old.

Recently, the Delaware County Hero Scholarship Fund Committee awarded Alexandra a scholarship to pay her college tuition, in recognition of her father’s service and sacrifice.

"When you see how these funds directly impact a young life, we’re reminded of how vital it is to participate and support organizations such as the Hero Scholarship Fund," said Culp.