A Salford charity supporting individuals and families experiencing poverty, homelessness and discrimination has called for keen runners to help them raise funds.
Caritas Salford has urged seasoned runners or those considering taking up running in 2026 to get in touch as it looks to build a team to support its work.
The organisation has encouraged anyone willing to consider taking on a sponsored run or walking challenge this year in support of the charity.
Salfordians who get involved will gain entry to run in a range of events on behalf of the charity, such as the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run Half Marathon.
The homelessness charity is running a reduced registration rate of just £10 throughout January, when runners pledge to raise £200 in sponsorship.
The Catholic Diocese of Salford’s social action arm runs a range of community and outreach services supporting people experiencing homelessness, poverty and discrimination in the area and has seen demand for help soar as families and individuals are driven closer to crisis point.
Patrick O’Dowd, director of Caritas Salford, said: “The weather is cold and for many of us, we are relishing hibernation mode – sitting in our warm homes, reflecting on a Christmas that was full of good food and great company.
“But, tragically, for many, many people in Greater Manchester and Lancashire, that’s not possible. There are more than 333,000 children in our area, for example, who are living in serious poverty right now.
“We’re seeing more and more people coming to our services for urgent assistance, both at a time of acute crisis, but for help transforming their lives for the long-term too. We want to – and need to – be there, alongside them every step of the way.
“That’s why we’re appealing for urgent help from anyone willing to consider taking on a sponsored run or walking challenge this year.
There are lots to choose from, and if you’re up for pushing yourself out of your comfort zone to really make a difference and assist others as they transform their lives we’d love you to get in touch.”
Places are available for the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run 10K, which takes place in May, for those who choose to complete a sponsored run in support of Caritas.
And if running is not your thing, the charity said a range of other sponsored events and activities are available and encouraged Salford residents to get in touch.
From reading challenges to bake sales, gardening quests, to knit-athons, there really is something for everyone in our 2026 Every Step appeal, so please take a look, take a moment to consider what you might do to push yourself out of your comfort zone this year, and take an important step to help others.
More information about Caritas Salford and how to get inovlved is availible here.
