The town of Easton is joining the races to combat breast cancer with an event of its own called a "Walk of Hope, Run for Life."

It may not rival the Susan Komen fund raisers that attract thousands of pink-ribboned runners each summer, but it has an additional purpose besides chairty.

"This event will give us an opportunity to bring the community together," said Park and Recreation Director Gary Simone, one of its lead organizers. "If we save a life or two it will be icing on the cake."

As planned, the Easton event will combine short distance race for children, followed by a walk and then a five kilometer adult run.

Funds generated from sponsorships and admission fees will be donated to the Norma F. Pfriem Breast Cancer Center, which has facilities at Bridgeport Hospital and in Fairfield.

The board of finance approved using $2,500 from the parks and recreation activity account to provide start-up money for the event that is intended to become an annual affair.

The date picked for the first Walk of Hope, Run for Life is Sept. 6.