Planning for the International Falls Area CROP Hunger Walk has begun.

The May 6 event will help raise funds for the Falls Hunger Coalition and Salvation Army, with remaining funds supporting Church World Service and other designated international agencies for relief and development programs.

The goal of the local walk this year is to attract more than 144 walkers and raise more than $7,100.

Registration for the event begins at 2 p.m. May 6 at Smokey Bear Park. At 2:30 p.m., walkers will leave the park and walk to Ranier and then back. The walk totals 6.2 miles.

To participate, contact a participating organization or church for a donation envelope and additional information. Participating groups include Bethany Lutheran, Evangelical Covenant, Falls Hunger Coalition, Faith United, First Lutheran, Full Gospel, Littlefork Lutheran and the Salvation Army. People may also contact Pat Norby at 283-4113 or First Lutheran Church at 283-2208.

Walkers seek donations from family, friends and coworkers. Donations can also be sought by going online to www.cropwalk.org and clicking the “sign up” button. Click on Minnesota on the U.S. map and scroll down to the list of CROP Hunger Walks to the International Falls Hunger Walk. Click on  “International Falls” and follow directions. Emails can be sent to people anywhere in the world who can donate to the cause.

Other than gathering donations and walking, and making a donation, people may participate by:

• Being a spirit walker — raising funds but not walking.

• Volunteering on walk day.

• Serving on the organization committee for the walk.

• Recruiting and promoting the walk in a church or organization.