Join us in May 2014 for a charity run to raise money for refugees and asylum seekers in Scotland.
By Cailtin MacMillan, Funding Development Volunteer
January has rolled around again. More likely than not, you’ve had a few too many mince pies and are feeling the effects of the inevitable over-indulgence of the festive season (I know I have). So what better way to start the new calendar year than to challenge yourself by signing up for a sponsored run with us?
In order to seek asylum, an individual seeking refuge in Scotland is expected to travel a staggering 413 miles (665km) from Glasgow to Croydon. We would love to recruit 133 people to run 5km each (or perhaps cover two runs at 10km) to collectively cover this symbolic distance which asylum seekers are expected to travel with no funds or support.
Whether you’re an experienced runner or a complete beginner, everyone is invited to take part.
The run
We hope to gather together as many of our runners and supporters as possible for a 5km run in Edinburgh on 24 May 2014. If you are unable to get to Edinburgh you can still take part in the Run for Refugees by signing up for any run around the country and ‘handing us over’ the kilometres.
If you’re unable to join as a runner, come and support us at our races or sponsor us! We hope to complete the distance between January and June 2014.
Need a hand?
We know that a sponsored run is no easy task. To stay motivated and reach our target, we’ll be offering each other plenty of encouragement by training as a team on the last Friday of each month at the Glasgow Green.
We’ll be taking advantage of the excellent races organised by 3k on the Green who organise this monthly run in one of Glasgow’s favourite parks to build up some extra miles and fit in some practice for our final race in May.
The funds
All funds raised from the sponsored runs will go towards our Refugee Assistance Appeal, which raises funds for the basic needs of children, women and men arriving at our offices for help to seek asylum. Small payments are provided from this fund to allow purchases of basic food, hygiene packs and winter clothing for those without. These funds are necessary to help the hundreds of people seeking asylum who have fled horrific situations. Experienced caseworkers provide support before the vital journey to Croydon to begin an asylum claim.
By taking part in sponsored runs, not only will we be getting fitter and raising money for vulnerable asylum seekers, we’ll also be raising awareness about Refugees in Scotland and the challenges which need to be overcome to build a new life in Scotland. What have you got to lose?
Contact funding@scottishrefugeecouncil.org.uk for more information.
