People experiencing homelessness and the staff that support them are taking to london’s streets today for charity.
The Connection at St Martin’s clients, staff and volunteers will be taking part in a 10 mile walk around the Western and Eastern Jubilee Walkway to raise money for two charities: The Honeypot’s Children’s Charity and The Connection itself.
The walk was proposed by one of The Connection’s clients, after they took part in the annual Pilgrimage event this summmer. The Pilgrimage traditionally sees groups get together for the 74 mile walk, held over three days, from London to Canterbury Cathedral. This idea was then developed and organised by many of the people we support, becoming The Connection’s London Walk 2021!
The people who are supported by The Connection have been at the centre of every decision about the event – including its route, timings and the choice of two charities – to benefit from its fundraising efforts. Staff, volunteers and clients will be walking together today to raise aswareness of issues around homelessness and the Honeypot’s work with young children as carers.
John (name has been changed to protect anonymity) is one The Connection’s clients and said:
“The worst thing about living on the streets is being cold, when it snows I have to go to the disabled toilets to sleep there. When you’re on the streets the people walking by are scary, sometimes I get spat on – people just swear at me. People should do the Walk to fund raise money for charity. The Connection helps us by providing food and washing our clothes. The staff have been really supportive and are presently helping to get me in contact with my daughter.”
The money raised from this event can pay for John to access the services in our Day Centre such as a shower, a hot meal and access to nurses, addiction support and recovery programmes with our experienced staff teams. Not only that, but the money could go towards a train fare, helping John to reconnect with his daughter and make a meaningful connection. By donating to The Connection at St Martin’s today, you are helping people, like John, off of the streets of Westminster and onto the road to recovery.
Funds raised today will support the Honeypot’s services too. Since 1996 Honeypot has been working to enhance the lives of young carers aged 5-12 years by providing respite breaks and on-going outreach support. In the UK nationwide, we give young carers a break from demanding and stressful responsibilities at home and provide a safe, nurturing environment where children at risk can develop their full potential.
“We believe that every child has the right to make the most of their one chance at childhood, regardless of the circumstances they experience at home. This is why we exist, ” said Simmi Woodwall, CEO Honeypot.
To support the team’s fundraising efforts for both charities, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/team/CSTMLondonWalk21