Refugee Run Club – No One Gets Left Behind 💛

When MileShyClub founder Jane saw people seeking asylum walking around her local community in flip-flops in the middle of winter, she wanted to do something to help.

What began with a need for suitable footwear grew into something bigger: an opportunity to get active, build friendships and feel part of the community.

Refugee Run Club started as an indoor Couch to 5k programme inside the hotel where participants were staying. Following the summer protests, it didn’t feel safe enough to run outside. As confidence grew, we eventually took the sessions outdoors in the summer.

Today, alongside our weekly run club, we organise regular parkrun outings and occasional races. We are also working on a wider project across Manchester and the North West to connect people seeking asylum with their local parkrun communities.

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we have already distributed more than 550 pairs of trainers, alongside donated clothing.

But with winter approaching, the need is growing. Many participants still lack suitable trainers and warm sportswear. Long-sleeved running tops, hats, gloves and socks will be essential to help people keep taking part through the colder months.

Your donation will help fund trainers and winter kit, transport to parkruns and other outings, and the delivery of running sessions and other activities, including football. It will help remove the practical barriers that can stop someone joining in.

We have created this page following repeated requests from people asking how to donate. It gives us one organised place to collect financial donations and track their impact. Donations will be received by MileShyClub and recorded separately from the charity’s other funds, so money raised through this appeal is used solely for the Refugee Run Club project.

You can also donate trainers and suitable sportswear at our collection points:

• Coppice Library & Wellbeing Centre, Coppice Avenue, Sale, M33 4ND — the collection basket is on the left as you enter.

• The Counselling & Family Centre, 40 Mayors Road, Altrincham, WA15 9RP — the donation bin is on the right in the main entrance.

Coppice also accepts donations by post. Please address parcels to:

FAO Refugee Run Club

Coppice Library & Wellbeing Centre

Coppice Avenue

Sale

M33 4ND

If the project comes to an end, any remaining funds will be donated to other charitable organisations supporting people seeking asylum.

Whether you donate money, pass on a pair of trainers or share this appeal, thank you for helping us keep people active, connected and warmly equipped this winter. 💛