Kevin W. Fitzgerald Park was buzzing with energy as runners and walkers alike gathered for Mission Hill Neighborhood Housing Services’ annual Mission Hill Road Race Sept. 28. Starting at 9 a.m., the event united participants from Boston and beyond to support an important cause: affordable housing in Mission Hill.

With live music, games and a medal ceremony, the 5K harbored a lively environment. The event attracted a diverse crowd of local residents, university students and individuals from surrounding communities. The course, which guided runners though Mission Hill’s notoriously steep terrain, posed a challenge for many participants. Regardless, racers were driven by their commitment to support the local community. 

“Housing insecurity affects so many of us, and it’s easy to take for granted if you’re not dealing with it directly,” said runner Jay Anand, an online game designer from Cambridge. “The fact that all the proceeds from this race go toward affordable housing makes this more than just a fun run. It’s a way to help those in need.” 

The race was about more than just crossing the finish line, several participants said; it was about building a stronger, more supportive community. Through events like these, Mission Hill Neighborhood Housing Services, or MHNHS, aims to not only raise funds but also cultivate a deeper understanding of the issues affecting residents.

MHNHS is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the neighborhood’s unique character while also improving living standards for all residents. It works to create and maintain long-term, affordable housing for low- and moderate-income people. Since 2013, MHNHS has been hosting the 5K race, raising approximately $20,000 annually for various housing and community development projects.

“It was a great experience,” said Jordan Bennett, a Mission Hill resident and Harvard School of Public Health student. “The race wasn’t just about exercise; it was about supporting the neighborhood. Affordable housing is a substantial issue in Boston, and seeing so many familiar faces come out for it was inspiring.” 

The impact of affordable housing extends beyond individual circumstances. According to Habitat for Humanity, the lack of access to affordable, healthy housing amplifies health disparities across entire neighborhoods, particularly for marginalized groups.

“I think events like this are important because they show how building a healthy, supportive community can be as simple as getting together for a walk or a run,” said runner Sheng-mei Liu, a business student at Boston University. 

Community engagement can be both accessible and impactful. Through the race, individuals can contribute to a culture of support for one another, which is essential in addressing local challenges. The race helped raise awareness and funding for MHNHS’s ongoing work by collecting $20 registration fees from each participant. 

“Housing is a fundamental aspect of health,” Bennett said. “The lack of affordable options in Boston is a major public health crisis, so being able to contribute through something like a 5K feels very meaningful to me.” 

According to the Boston Public Health Commission, stable housing is essential for better health outcomes. Without access to affordable housing, individuals are more likely to face mental health challenges, substance abuse issues and chronic health conditions. This lack of stability also limits access to vital resources, such as nutritious food and healthcare services. 

As MHNHS continues its efforts to improve housing access in Mission Hill, events like the Mission Hill Road Race aim to ensure that the rest of the community stays engaged — and that the race for affordable housing is one that everyone can run together.

“I’ve enjoyed the experience and felt like I was part of something bigger,” Anand said. “If they host future events, I’m definitely in.”

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