A teacher raised £820 for a Salford homelessness charity by running a marathon in Spain.
Billy McCrindle participated in the annual Valencia marathon on Sunday 7 December to raise money for Emmaus Salford.
The charity, which provides housing, support and training opportunities to those who have experienced homelessness, has been facing an uncertain future after being told its building lease will not be renewed.
But they have launched an appeal to raise funds needed to deal with the expiry of the lease of its building, which ends in February 2028.
Emmaus Salford’s Langworthy-home provides accommodation for up to 24 people with experience of homelessness, a social supermarket, school uniform hub, charity shop as well as a training and learning hub to help local people into work.
Renowned for its flat course with minimal elevation gain, the Valencia Marathon is one of the fastest in the world.
The race had been on McCrindle’s bucket list and, after completing the gruelling marathon, he said it would be his last time running over the distance.
“Running the Valencia Marathon on Sunday for my final marathon was tough in the heat, but what a beautiful city.
“The support from friends and spectators, and knowing I was running for a great cause, all helped to keep me going.
“I am incredibly grateful and humbled that donations for Emmaus Salford have already passed £820. It’s been a privilege to kick-start a year of fundraising for their Home For Good campaign, supporting those who have experienced homelessness. The charity’s future should never be this uncertain.
“I am proud to have finished the race, and I hope these funds go some way towards helping the charity’s vital work.”
Since it opened in 2005, Emmaus Salford has helped 775 people move on from homelessness, provided 31,000 hours of support conversations and given out 4,700 meals, clothes, shoes and lunches as part of its other community initiatives.
Billy has referred several people to Emmaus Salford for support during his teaching career, including one student who was sleeping in his own car while he worked and studied for a degree.
Chief Executive Officer of Emmaus Salford, Jackie Smith, said: “We can’t thank Billy enough for dedicating his last ever marathon to Emmaus Salford’s Home For Good campaign and would like to thank everyone who has donated so far.
“Billy’s marathon is a great way to start Emmaus Salford’s Home For Good appeal. Every pound you give to this campaign will help Emmaus Salford secure our support in the city for people with experience of homelessness, for Salford families and for local people who need help getting into work.
“I’d like to encourage everyone to get involved in our Home For Good fundraising opportunities and events accessible on our website and keep an eye on our social media for details.”
More information about the Salford homelessness charity is availible here.
