Run the Farm, National Night Out Return to Centereach

Two popular community traditions are returning to Centereach next month, with one helping to strengthen relationships between families and first responders while the other raises money for one of the area's most important charitable organizations.

Leading the way is the 12th annual Run the Farm, scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 15, at Bethel Hobbs Community Farm, 178 Oxhead Road in Centereach.

The event features an 8:30 a.m. Fun Run followed by a 9 a.m. four-mile run/walk, with proceeds supporting the nonprofit farm that provides fresh produce to Long Islanders who go hungry..

Organized by Town Clerk Kevin J. LaValle and Councilman Neil A. Manzella, the race has become a signature summer fundraiser for the last remaining farm in Centereach.

Hobbs Community Farm distributes between 75,000 and 100,000 pounds of fresh produce each year at no cost to local food pantries, veterans, senior citizens and families experiencing hardship.

The nonprofit relies heavily on volunteers, donations and community support to grow, harvest and distribute nutritious fruits and vegetables while serving as an educational resource for residents.

Race organizers say the scenic four-mile course begins with roughly two miles of flat terrain before transitioning to gentle slopes and two challenging climbs, finishing at Hobbs Farm. Registration is $30 in advance, $35 on race day and $5 for children under 10, with all proceeds benefiting the farm's mission.

Earlier in the month, LaValle and Manzella will also host the 9th annual National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 4, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Centereach Pool Complex.

The free community event drew approximately 2,500 people last year and will again feature free swimming, live music, a Touch-a-Truck experience, food trucks, vendors, family-friendly activities and opportunities for residents to meet members of the Suffolk County Police Department's 6th Precinct and other first responders.