The sixth annual Miracle Babies 5K on Sunday will raise money for families struggling to care for premature infants.

Every year more than 500,000 babies are born prematurely. Miracle Babies provides education, support, and financial assistance to families with newborns in a neonatal intensive care unit.

A baby in a neonatal intensive care unit. Photo courtesy Miracle Babies
A baby in a neonatal intensive care unit. Photo courtesy Miracle Babies

The event begins with registration at 7 a.m. Sunday at Embarcadero Marina Park South and continues untl 1 p.m. A timed 5K run starts at 8 a.m. followed by a family-friendly 5K walk at 9 a.m.

Following the walk, participants and spectators can enjoy food, drinks, kids’ activities including an Inflatable World Kid Zone, a celebration of life resource fair, and a health and wellness expo.

The event will include an infant diaper dash, kids obstacle courses, and contests for best stroller design, best child costume, and most spirited team.

Sponsors include Viacord, The Port of San Diego, Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women and Newborns, Qualcomm, Coastal Payroll, Molina Healthcare, First 5 San Diego, and the Xolos.

Registration for walkers is $15 for adults and free for children under 12. The fee for runners is $20 for adults and $10 for children under 12. Participants may register at www.miraclebabies5k.com or on location.

Chris Jennewein is founder and senior editor of Times of San Diego.