During its annual Friends of the Poor Walk/Run on Sept. 29, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul was able to raise more than $50,000 thanks to support from participants and area businesses.

After collecting pledges, more than 400 walkers and runners arrived at Colt State Park in Bristol to walk a 3-mile course or compete in a 5-mile road race.

Participants came from all around the state and included two dozen second-grade students from Moses Brown School and a fraternity from Bryant University.

Society of St. Vincent de Paul will use the funds raised to provide Rhode Islanders in need with heating assistance, furniture, food and other basic needs.

“This is our only statewide fundraiser, so the money raised directly correlates to the support we’re able to provide throughout the year,” said Rita St. Pierre, president of the society. The society identifies the needs of those it supports through assessments or home visits.

“Poverty doesn’t discriminate,” St. Pierre added. “Recipients of St. Vincent de Paul Society aid come from all educational, ethnic, religious and geographic backgrounds.” •