Two Flossmoor treasures are coming together for a powerful purpose: celebrating the joy, pride, and community spirit of the Hidden Gem while helping neighbors facing serious illness get the nourishing food and support they need.

The Center for Food Equity in Medicine (CFFEIM), a Flossmoor-based nonprofit committed to ensuring that no one facing cancer or another life-altering health condition goes hungry, has partnered with the Hidden Gem Half Marathon Committee to offer two coveted race bibs as a special fundraiser for CFFEIM.

This year’s race, GEM7, is more than a run through Flossmoor’s beautiful streets—it is a chance to turn every mile into meaningful support for families navigating the weight of illness, treatment, and food insecurity.

The Hidden Gem has earned CARA Race of the Year honors three of the last four years, and it continues to showcase what makes Flossmoor special: welcoming neighborhoods, cheering residents, and a community that shows up for one another.

The 2026 Hidden Gem Half Marathon will take place on Saturday, September 12, 2026. This pure road race features minimal backtracking through the distinct neighborhoods of Flossmoor, IL, making it an ideal experience for both serious and casual runners. Anyone training for the Chicago Marathon will appreciate the September timing, while runners with more modest goals will enjoy an entertaining course through beautiful, shady neighborhoods lined with enthusiastic neighbors.

Through this online auction, each bib will be awarded to the highest bidder, with a goal of raising at least $1,000 to advance the work of the Center for Food Equity in Medicine. Your bid helps CFFEIM provide culturally affirming groceries, compassionate support, and dignity-centered care to people and families who should never have to choose between managing their health and having enough to eat. The bidding begins now—claim your chance to run the Gem and help feed hope.

Two Bids, One Great Cause: Hidden Gem Half Marathon Bib Sale

Want to run the Hidden Gem this September, 2 bids are now available?