WORCESTER — Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance held its 37th annual Walk for the Homeless Sunday to help end homelessness in the area.

The event raised money for organizations which support people struggling with housing and hunger issues. The walk ended with food and live music. 

Organizers said the homeless population needs help now more than ever and events like this play a huge role in raising funds and awareness for the cause.

"The energy is tremendous. This really does help support our program. Our prevention programs, our programs to provide services to homeless families," Leah Bradley with Central Mass Housing Alliance said. "We also have beneficiaries so in the hour of need, Friendly House is one of our beneficiaries. So for us it really is about helping all the community partners that are addressing homelessness and the shelter system."

The Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance said it's important to continue providing affordable and safe housing, as well as provide preventative measures to keep families and individuals from becoming homeless.