RICHMOND – Northfield Ministries will host its first annual 5K race/walk on Saturday, May 7. Northfield's Race to Break Free will take place on the grounds of The Northfield Cumberland Home, a plantation estate dating back to the 1800s which will soon open as a Christian-based residential treatment facility for women experiencing eating disorders, depression, self-harm and in some cases, unplanned pregnancy.

“Race to Break Free will give us the opportunity to raise awareness of how big an issue this is in our community, as well as across the nation,” says Catherine Boyle, Race to Break Free chair. “We're hoping to bring people together for a great cause and for great fun.”

Northfield's Race to Break Free will help raise funds to complete renovations on the Cumberland Home, as well as to hire and train staff for the home.

“It is our hope that we will soon be able to open the home to full-time residents as well as begin offering weekend programs for non-residents,” says Gwen Seiler, Northfield Ministries founder & executive director.

Race to Break Free activities include food, family-friendly activities, and an appearance by Miss Virginia USA 2011, all held on the 49-acre campus of The Northfield Cumberland Home. Music provided by local favorites “The VIPs.” Guided tours of the Northfield Home will also be offered following the race.

Walkers and racers can register for the Race to Break Free as individuals or as a team. Registration fees are $25 per runner/walker or $250 per team. The race will begin at 10 a.m. at 189 Old Buckingham Road in Cumberland.

Registration can be completed online by visiting www.northfieldfoundation.org/race.

Northfield Ministries is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization; a tax receipt will be issued for all donations and/or participation in the race.

For more information on this exciting event, please contact Catherine Boyle, Northfield Ministries' Race to Break Free Chairperson, at (804)243-2002.