TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — The Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona says it has seen a greater demand during the pandemic.
That has given a Tucson man even more motivation to run an ultramarathon to raise money for the non-profit.
Back in 2017, Dan Heston ran the 106 mile El Tour De Tucson course. He raised more than $22,000 that day for the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona.
After turning 50 years old last week, Heston is ready for his next challenge.
On January 2, he plans to run the nearly 54-mile Huckelberry Loop around Tucson.
"Anything over 40 or 50 miles is a test on the body, and I'm willing to give it a try," said Heston. "Especially for a cause like this."
For the eighth straight year, Heston will run an ultramarathon to raise money for the Community Food Bank.
"We've collected over $100,000 since we started this venture," according to Heston.
An impressive amount for the man who says he has a passion for running, and for helping his community.
That means asking people to donate, to support both his passions. Something he doesn't take for granted.
"It's the people that donate to support some crazy guy out there running distance," Heston said. "I'm willing to do that if it's going to mean getting that money to the food bank, and the people that truly need it."
There has never been a greater need at the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. The pandemic has negatively impacted donations, while the demand has sharply increased.
"People in the food bank have said the pandemic has hit households that normally wouldn't need that food bank subsistence," said Heston. "It's really nice to be able to help those folks."
Dan says he thinks of those people as he runs. He also plans to break up the run in his head, for motivation.
"Once I finish with the second marathon at 52.4 miles, then I'll say there's only about a mile fun run from here."
Most of us wouldn't call a mile, after already running 52-miles, fun. Dan Heston does.