Park City nonprofit turns trail miles into meals for hungry kids

The Park City-based Ripline Foundation turns outdoor recreation into fundraising for child hunger relief, inviting participants to hike, bike, run, ski or climb in support of meals for kids. Photo: Jon Flobrant

Ripline Foundation invites hikers, bikers, runners and skiers to turn outdoor recreation into donations, with a goal of funding 1 million meals in 2026

PARK CITY, Utah — A Park City-based nonprofit is asking residents to do what many already love — hike, bike, run, ski, or climb — and use those miles to help feed children.

The Ripline Foundation, founded in Park City, uses outdoor recreation as a fundraising engine to address child hunger. Participants pledge to an outdoor activity, recruit friends or family members to sponsor them, and log miles or time outside. Those donations are then directed to organizations that fight hunger.

FOX 13 reported that the foundation is already halfway toward its 2026 goal of providing 1 million meals for children. The station featured the Ripline Foundation as part of its Zero Hunger Hero series, noting that every $1 donated to the nonprofit can help provide 10 meals.

“It’s a no-brainer,” Ripline Foundation board member Beth Armstrong told FOX 13. Armstrong, a former track athlete, said the model connects charitable giving with the outdoor culture that already defines much of Utah life.

The idea is simple: recreation becomes a ripple effect. A Saturday bike ride, a morning run, a family hike, or a ski tour can become a way to raise money for children who may not have consistent access to food.

Board member Bob Mercer told FOX 13 that the community response has not surprised him, citing Utah’s culture of charitable giving and the added appeal of pairing generosity with time spent outdoors.

According to FOX 13, 100% of the money raised through Ripline goes to organizations working to fight hunger. The foundation was recognized by Smith’s and FOX 13 with a Zero Hunger Hero Award.

The model also arrives as local organizations continue to highlight food insecurity across Summit and Wasatch counties. Christian Center of Park City operates food pantries in Park City and Heber City and serves residents with free groceries, while also hosting its annual Hike for Hunger to raise awareness around local hunger needs.

For Ripline, the invitation is broad: choose an outdoor activity, gather sponsors, and turn movement into meals.

Residents can learn more or sign up through the Ripline Foundation website.