Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

After 5 years of researching economic development in Brazil, I know how important smaller charities can be to the development effort. Life on the street in Brazil can be hard, very hard ... and even worse if you are just a child.

So I am looking to raise as much money as possible for this very worthwhile cause, which has been supported by people such as Jimmy Page and Evangeline Lilly, as well as various companies and donors. See www.taskbrasil.org.uk for more details on the work of this great charity which is small but professionally-run, making direct contributions to sustainable projects which could otherwise not happen.

A half marathon (13.1 miles or 21km) will be a big personal challenge but after 3 months of very hard work, I think I am ready. Knowing that it can make a big difference to children who deserve a better life will be enough to get me through those last few miles, I am sure of it! Hopefully I can finish in less than 2 hours, but whatever happens I will make it across that finish line, I promise. 

It will be great to collect as much as possible before the race on Sunday 11 October but don't forget that you can still donate up to 3 months after this date.

I am collecting donations through JustGiving because it is a totally secure and independent way of donating directly to the charity. If you are a UK taxpayer, Gift Aid can automatically be reclaimed on your behalf (just tick the box and agree to disclose your address) and the charity will receive additional money from the government. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Muito obrigado! (Thank you very much!)

Martin x