Story





Can you imagine what it would be like if you were a 6 year old child living with your grandma, a neighbour or even your teacher, and you only saw your Mum twice a year because she had to work abroad to make a living?
Can you imagine what it would be like to be a child yourself, caring for your younger siblings; dressing them; feeding them; fending for them; because you haven't seen your Mum for months and you were not sure if or when she is going to come back?
Can you imagine what it would be like to be 80 years old, living by yourself in a tiny room in unsanitary conditions; not having any visitors; blind and still having to light a fire so that you could attempt to cook something?
Can you imagine what it would be like to fall asleep at school because the room where you live with your family is too cold for you to sleep at night as your parents can't afford to buy firewood?
These are not made up stories. These are all people I have met - this year - in Moldova, the poorest country in Europe. And their story is replicated up and down that land in the lives of thousands of others. So, I have decided that I want to make a small difference for some of those dear children and older people.
On 25th July, I will run a 10K race around London's Hyde Park. This is the longest distance that I, a non-natural-runner, has ever attempted, As I heave myself round, I hope to raise money for two Christian charities I'm involved with, doing an amazing job in Moldova!
'La VIA' and 'Neemia' care for some of the most vulnerable children and elderly people. Every day, 'La VIA', a charity I volunteer with, provides a hot meal (probably their only one of the day), a place of safety, love and practical care for up to 30 of the poorest children in the community, including some street kids. In a similar way, 'Neemia,' a charity I help with every 6 weeks, provides a hot meal for some of the most vulnerable children and elderly people in a village and runs a community centre where the children can come and take part in many different activities.
If these charities didn't exist, 100 children and elderly people would go hungry every day; many children would be left fending for themselves, at risk from abuse, and going day after day without receiving any love; and some dear elderly people would be stuck in their homes hungry and lonely.
It costs just £8 per day for La VIA to feed 30 children. They don't have enough regular income to cover their costs every month. I would love to help give them a big amount of money so they don't have to worry about making ends meet.
'Neemia' charity are feeding many children and old people using an oven which keeps breaking down. I would love to raise enough money for them to buy a new one.
Rather than give to a charity where you're not entirely sure how the money will be spent, I will be there, personally able to see how every penny you give is used... and your money will go a long way.
Adriana and her small team at 'La VIA' and Victor and his small team at 'Neemia' work tirelessly and sacrificially for all those who come through their doors. Their love and hard work astounds me and humbles me. They have won my heart, and I would love to be able to give something back to them.
Thank you so much for your help and support!
Bequi