Story
Hey 👋
So, I have somehow accidentally got myself a ballot place for the London Marathon 2025. Some may ask how you can accidentally get a place peope try unsuccessfully for years for, others who know me get this could only happen to me! I know how luckily (or unlucky I haven't decided yet) I am to get such a sort after place and what a fantastic opportunity I have to raise money for my chosen charity DENS.
So I am to become a 'runner' whether I like it or not, come rain or shine, to go from barely being able to run 26.2 meters to 26.2 miles.
Running a marathon is no easy feat, nor is the countless hours of training runs throughout the winter, but the thought of making a positive impact keeps me motivated through every run. Every mile I cover brings us one step closer to helping those in need, and with your support, I know we can make a real difference. I would be incredibly grateful if you could support me on this journey. Whether you donate a little or a lot, every penny counts and will go a long way in helping DENS continue their amazing work.
You may know DENS as the homeless charity for people in Dacorum. But, DENS do so much more than just provide a roof and a bed. Their aim is to be the first port of call for people in Dacorum who are facing homelessness, poverty and social exclusion; to support and empower them to take the next positive step in their lives, secure and maintain a long-term housing option and be an active member of their community.
They ensure individuals have access to temporary and short-term accommodation, and individuals and families have access to emergency food and provisions. Providing a range of services so that people can develop the resilience, skills and confidence to take the next step in their lives on a pathway towards an independent future.
All your fabulous donations will help them provide these phenomenal services to assist many people as possible!
Outreach - Working with local rough sleepers to build trust and offer access to any services needed – with a focus on bringing people off the streets and into safe, stable accommodation.
Day Centre - A community-based setting, providing immediate expert advice, where anyone is welcome to drop in, have a shower, a hot meal and some clean clothes, all within a safe space.
The Elms - A 44-bed hostel providing emergency and short-term accommodation to single, homeless adults.
Crash Pad - Emergency overnight accommodation offered to people during severe cold weather, or when we are unable to accommodate them immediately at The Elms.
Move On - Providing support for The Elms residents into more independent living in shared accommodation.
Resettlement - Supporting clients moving from The Elms or Move On into council, social housing or private rental.
Therapy Centre - In-house therapy support on a one-to-one or group basis to help clients process past trauma.
Employability and Social Enterprises - Empowering people to build their confidence and self-worth whilst improving their employment prospects. Also offering opportunities to develop relevant skills through training and work experience, including at our social enterprises, The Bike Project and The Kitchen Café.
Foodbank - Providing emergency food parcels and household provisions to local individuals and families facing poverty.
In the Community - Supporting people in the community during this cost of living crisis and helping reduce the need for the Foodbank.
Thank you for reading so far. Everyone's commitment and enthusiasm towards my journey is amazing and so super helpful. Over the next 8 months I have a series of races, starting with a 5km on 5th September, then a few 10kms and a half marathon before the big day. To keep me motivated and making progress at reasonable increments.
If you would like to follow my journey please follow my Instagram page at
https://www.instagram.com/couch_to_marathon_runner?igsh=YmJ1M3BuMXphb2I0
Thank you so much for your donation whatever the number I am hugely grateful. Every donation is another person telling me they beleive I can do this and that's amazing!
Love you!