5k Run/Walk to Help Okmulgee County Foster Children Set for Oct. 18

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 The Okmulgee County Elks Lodge has partnered with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) and several local businesses to hold a 5K run/walk on Oct. 18. Proceeds will be used to purchase Christmas presents for Okmulgee County foster children in DHS custody.

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Okmulgee County Elks Lodge has partnered with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) and several local businesses to hold a 5K run/walk on Oct. 18. Proceeds will be used to purchase Christmas presents for Okmulgee County foster children in DHS custody.

The theme of the event is 'Color Out Abuse' and participants will be sprayed with non-permanent dye as they pass color stations along the 3.1 mile course. 

"The 5K will be perfect for the avid runner or the first time participant," said Elks Lodge member Christa Johnson. "This is a fun run and participants can run or walk without a time limit."

Pre-registration packets can be picked up on Oct. 17 at the Okmulgee Elks Lodge No. 18222, 701 South Mission Road. Race day registration begins at 7 a.m. on Oct. 18 and the race/walk begins at 8:30 a.m.

Information about child abuse prevention and foster care services will be available to participants and the general public.

"This is a great community initiative," said Karen Jacobs, Administrator, DHS Office of Community and Faith Engagement. "Collaborative efforts such as this help engage the community, promote child abuse prevention, and provide an opportunity for DHS to raise awareness about the vital need for additional foster homes."

For more information about how to register for the event, call 918-650-2904 or email coloroutabuse5k@gmail.com.

For more information about how to become a foster parent, call 800-376-9729 or visit okbridgefamilies.com. To report suspected child abuse or neglect, call 800-522-3511 or your local DHS office. 

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