'Shred The Debt' 5K Run To Step Off In Buckingham This Spring

DOYLESTOWN, PA — This spring, Covenant Church is inviting the community to join its members as they hit the pavement to "Shred The Debt."

On May 2, the church will be holding a 5K Run and Fun Walk at Holicong Park in Buckingham to raise money to help eliminate medical debt for families and individuals in Bucks County who are facing significant financial burdens.

According to the church, every $40 registration fee will help eliminate roughly $3,500 of medical debt for families across Bucks County.

By partnering with the national nonprofit Undue Medical Debt, Covenant’s goal is to raise $25,000 to purchase outstanding medical debt for pennies on the dollar and eliminate it. Through Undue Medical Debt’s model, every $40 registration will help eliminate roughly $3500 worth of medical debt.

To participate in the event, donate, or learn more, visit:
covenantdoylestown.org/shredthedebt/

“This spring, as Easter approaches, we’re reminded of Jesus’ teaching to love our neighbors as ourselves,” said Mike Flannery, Communications Director at Covenant Church. “Medical debt is a significant burden for many in our community who are already stretched financially. Often, a medical emergency arises through no fault of their own, leaving families with overwhelming bills. We have an opportunity to show compassion in a tangible way and multiply our impact by inviting our neighbors to join us. Regardless of religious affiliation, this event is an opportunity for Bucks County to rally and bring meaningful relief to our community.”

Medical debt is the leading cause of bankruptcy in the United States. Individuals carrying medical debt are significantly more likely to experience mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression, and are more likely to delay or skip necessary care.

Undue Medical Debt is a national nonprofit that acquires medical debt belonging to those least able to pay in large bundled portfolios for pennies on the dollar, while also raising awareness about the systemic challenges that create medical debt.

"We’re excited to partner with them," said Flannery.