The Pacific Pride Foundation is holding its 16th annual AIDS walk, “Heart & Sole,” at 8 a.m. Oct. 7 at Leadbetter Beach.

“One of the reasons the AIDS walk is so important is that it raises funds for much needed services for HIV education regarding prevention and care,” said AIDS Walk Co-coordinator Jodi Segal.

The walk covers 6.2 miles along Cabrillo Boulevard. The Pacific Pride Foundation expects about 500 walkers and 200 volunteers, Segal said.

She added that every year the government gives less and less money to AIDS research. The AIDS walk is also held to raise awareness in the Santa Barbara community about the disease and its dangers, Segal said.

There are prizes awarded depending on how much money the walker raises. At the end of the walk, the foundation provides a beachside celebration for participants.

-Erin Burris