A West Sussex charity is inviting people to lace up their walking boots and help prevent homelessness in the local community. Stonepillow is hosting its Cathedral to Coast Trek on Saturday 2 May.
The eight-mile sponsored community walk will begin on the green at Chichester Cathedral and follow pavements, footpaths, country lanes and open fields before finishing on the seafront at Bognor Regis Sailing Club.
Stonepillow hopes the event will bring together people from across the area for a memorable day out while raising money to support its services.
The charity says its day hubs in Chichester and Bognor provided vital support for 740 people experiencing homelessness last year. Help included warm meals, clothing, showers, laundry facilities, advice and support applying for a safe place to live. In total, the hubs were visited 11,688 times in a year.
Sophia Rapley is Fundraising Manager at Stonepillow: "I'm sure many of us have noticed an increase in people who are obviously homeless on our streets, and we know that even more homelessness is hidden from view. Alongside the crisis support in the day hubs, we helped around another 300 local people with a safe place to sleep through our hostels and temporary accommodation last year."
This is the first time Stonepillow has organised the trek and organisers hope it will become an annual event.
"We wanted a challenge that would be a fun community experience as well as a chance to raise money to help keep our hubs open." explains Sophia. "We've got family groups and teams from local businesses signed up, and also solo walkers taking part - it's a great way to meet people and enjoy a walk with friendly company. Some people are bringing their dogs along too."
"We're asking walkers to raise sponsorship money from friends, family and colleagues. Every step you take, and every pound you raise will make a real difference for homeless people in our local community," explains Sophia. "Don't be put off from joining in if you're worried you won't raise enough. Any amount you can raise, however big or small, can help turn someone's life around."
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