16th Annual ‘Camping for Hunger’ Brings Hope to Shenandoah Valley Families

For the 16th year in a row, The River 95.3/WZRV’s “Camping for Hunger” has made a significant impact in the northern Shenandoah Valley. Held the week before Thanksgiving, the event raised over 12,100 pounds of food and $15,100 in cash for the Front Royal/Warren County C-CAP pantry program. According to C-CAP Executive Director Joanne Koszyk, these contributions will help meet nearly nine months of food needs for families facing hunger in the region.

“This year, we saw an increased demand for assistance compared to 2023, making these donations vital for our mission,” Koszyk said. She also noted that C-CAP typically serves over 5,000 households annually.

A Week of Commitment

Throughout the week-long event, the station’s team, including on-air personalities Lonnie Hill, Randy Woodward, Ryan Rutherford, and Scott Bradley, as well as station owner Andrew Shearer, camped out on a bus stationed at Royal Plaza Shopping Center in Front Royal. The team broadcast live daily, urging the community to step up with donations.

President of Royal Broadcasting, Andrew Shearer, praised the community’s dedication: “For 16 years now, this community has proven it supports its own. We’re merely the conduit for the great work individuals and businesses do in support of this mission. I’m truly humbled that we can be a part of it.”

Longstanding Community Impact

Since its inception in 2008, “Camping for Hunger” has raised over 216,000 pounds of food and more than $157,600 in monetary donations. These totals reflect the community’s steadfast commitment to fighting hunger, bolstered by the efforts of local businesses, schools, and civic organizations hosting food drives and offering on-site support.

With the need continuing to grow, events like “Camping for Hunger” serve as a crucial lifeline for families in the area. Those interested in contributing or learning more can find details and a full list of participating organizations on The River 95.3’s Camping for Hunger page.