runDisney Donations Help Families in Need

runDisney’s Impact: Supporting Families Through Donations

This Global Running Day, June 4, Disney shines a spotlight on the thousands of dedicated athletes and cast members who participate in runDisney race weekends. Their incredible accomplishments on the course are only part of the story; it’s the positive impact they create well beyond the finish line that truly inspires.

Related – Disneyland Halting RunDisney Races after the 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend

Among the thousands of participants in runDisney race weekends, many intentionally shed jackets or extra layers along the course. These aren’t simply forgotten items; they’re donated for a good cause. The clothing is collected, cleaned, and then given to Harvest Time International, a Florida-based non-profit that supports families in need. For instance, after the 2025 Walt Disney World Marathon alone, a record 24,000 pounds of clothing was donated, significantly helping numerous families.

“It’s an incredible feeling knowing our guests and cast members are contributing to an important cause. We’re grateful for the opportunity to help support families across Central Florida,” Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Director of External Affairs at Walt Disney World, said.

After the last runner crosses the finish line, Walt Disney World’s custodial cast members collect and prepare the clothing for transport to Textile Services, the resort’s on-site laundry facility. After an impressive cleaning and drying process, cast members package the items with care to make their way to a new home.

“The clothing donated during runDisney race weekends makes a real difference for the families we serve at Harvest Time International. Once sorted, these donations are distributed through our outreach programs and respond to urgent needs. Every donation helps restore dignity and stability for families facing difficult circumstances. We’re deeply grateful for the generosity, care, and coordination that make it possible for these items to continue their journey and offer families a fresh start,” Trae Brogdon, Director of GIK Partnerships at Harvest Time International, said.

Thanks to the kindness of our guests and the dedication of our cast, we’re able to provide support to those who may not be able to purchase clothes for their families. And just imagine, the clothing that helped a runDisney athlete cross the finish line could now help introduce a young person to the joys and benefits of running.

Walt Disney World’s dedication to its community doesn’t stop with runDisney: recent initiatives include the resort hosting its second-ever Once Upon A Wish Party — a multi-day large-scale wish-granting event where nearly 50 children facing critical illnesses and their families were swept away into their own Disney Princess stories; providing schools in Central Florida with the resources they need to launch sustainable theater programs through the nationwide Disney Musicals in Schools program; and hosting the 2025 Special Olympics Florida State Summer Games at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex for 2,300 athletes from across the state.

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