Local schoolgirl Phoebe Pudsey-Dawson has run 50km to support people experiencing homelessness and raise money for Bath charity Julian House.
With an initial fundraising target of £200, Phoebe smashed it by raising an incredible £840 for the charity.
After hearing a talk at her local primary school in Marksbury about homelessness and how Julian House helps vulnerable people, 9-year-old Phoebe wanted to do something to help the charity during this difficult time.
She laced up her running shoes and ran every day for seven days to meet her 50km target.
She also wrote and delivered a letter to her local neighbours in the village to rally support for her self-organised fundraiser.
Speaking about why she wanted to raise money for Julian House, she wrote: “Sadly, due to Covid-19, charities have lost a lot of money because many fundraising events have had to be cancelled. Their [Julian House’s] work is critical at the moment as they help the most vulnerable people in our society.
“Self-isolation, social distancing and maintaining safe levels of handwashing is difficult for those without a home living on the street.”
A regular at the Bath Skyline Parkrun, Phoebe wanted to combine her passion for running with helping others, writing: “I am going to run 50 km (31 miles) in seven days. I hope to run between 5 and 7km each day. It would be really nice if you could sponsor me so I can help raise money for the hardworking and caring charity Julian House.”
Her personal letter proved a hit with neighbours and donations came pouring in, meaning Phoebe smashed her initial target to raise £840.
Jess Gay, Senior Community & Events Fundraiser at Julian House said: “I’d like to say a big well done to Phoebe. Not only running everyday for 7 days to reach 50km, but her idea to send a letter to local neighbours was inspired.
“Her personal letter was beautifully written and her level of compassion for others is incredible heart-warming, especially during these difficult times.
“Due to the Coronavirus, the cancellation/postponement of our fundraising events and the closure of all our charity shops has meant we’ve predicted an income loss of at least £200,000.
“The money Phoebe has raised will be used to help fund our services, like our hostel, domestic abuse refuge and outreach, so we can continue supporting very vulnerable people at this difficult time.”
You can support Phoebe by donating to her Just Giving page here.
To donate to Julian House’s COVID-19 appeal, click here.
