According to research, people who are homeless walk in excess of 10 miles each day on average, looking for food, a safe place to sleep or to escape abuse.

Money raised from this 21-mile walk will help provide a home, welfare support and the opportunity to rebuild lost confidence and self-esteem through the focus of work each day at Emmaus Preston's three new and secondhand stores.

According to Lancashire County Council, Preston reported the highest number of people seeking accommodation from homelessness out of its 12 local authorities for 2020/21. Preston recorded 422 households for three-quarters of the year, while in Blackpool the figure was 788 for the whole year.

Director Stephen Buchanan said: "At Emmaus Preston we work to address physical and mental health issues, as well as the reasons people have become homeless or at risk of homelessness in the first place. We help people access the right healthcare, which can include support from onsite counselling facilities.

"We hope this walk will raise awareness of what life is like for someone who is homeless, while raising money to help provide a safe and caring place for people who are homeless or at risk. At Emmaus Preston people can find a home for as long as is needed until they feel ready to move on, with our support every step of the way."

Emmaus Preston would like to thank Makenziee Wells, a supporter of Emmaus Preston, who has organised the walk and will be leading it for the third year running!

Anyone who would like to take part in the walk must contact Emmaus at info@emmauspreston.org.uk or through Emmaus Preston's Facebook Page before the end of June 2022, to receive a sponsorship form and necessary information.

The walk is expected to take a large part of the day so please bring appropriate clothing for all weather conditions, a packed lunch and plenty of water.