Dear all

We hope this message finds you well.

We are excited to share that Ali will be participating in the Sydney Marathon on August 31, 2025, representing a cause that is close to his heart. He secured a spot with a charity less than 10 weeks before race day, and despite facing challenges such as a torn groin muscle from football in September 2024 and lower back pain in April 2025 (which made moving difficult without holding onto walls), Ali is determined to overcome these obstacles.

This journey is not just about running; it’s about making a positive impact on the lives of others. Ali has partnered with Hand on Heart (Registered Charity Number: 1193599) to raise £2,000 to help provide essential packs to rough sleepers and those in temporary accommodation across the UK. Life doesn’t get easier for people experiencing homelessness in the warmer months; it just brings new challenges.

Hand on Heart, in partnership with BCT, is carrying out the Summer Homeless Campaign to provide 1,300 Summer Essential Packs to rough sleepers and those in temporary accommodation across the UK during August and September 2025. When Ali learned about Hand on Heart's mission, it resonated deeply with him. With the ongoing cost of living crisis and rising homelessness, even the most basic items—like clean clothes or toiletries—are out of reach for many. Together, we can change that.

While Ali may be just one person running a race, together, we can achieve something far greater than crossing a finish line.

If you can contribute—even a small amount—it will directly support real meals for real children who deserve a chance at a better future.

On September 3, 2025, members from EY Restructuring and Freshfields will actively participate in distributing these Essential Packs to rough sleepers in Shoreditch, London. This initiative is a fantastic opportunity to engage with and support those in need, marking the first of our planned quarterly events in collaboration with law firms we closely work with.

How You Can Help

Each essential summer pack costs £20, and we are seeking 40 generous donors to reach our target of £1,000. This will provide essential items to those enduring rough sleeping and vulnerable families on the brink of poverty. Each drawstring bag is carefully designed to support health, dignity, and comfort in hot weather. Items include:

Light t-shirt or polo shirt

Socks & underwear

Baseball cap

Deodorant, wet wipes & sun cream

Goods360 Hygiene Kit: 2-in-1 body wash/shampoo, conditioner, lotion, oral care kit, face cream, chapstick, sleep mask, ear plugs, pen, comb, and more

Here’s the exciting part: when you donate £20, it effectively becomes £45 through Gift Aid and EY's matched funding.

Your donation: £20 for one complete essential pack

Gift Aid (25%): £7.50

EY Matched Funding: £20

Total Donation with Gift Aid and Matched Funding: £45

If you are interested in volunteering, Hand on Heart is always looking for more volunteers nationwide. You can register your interest using the link below: Volunteer Enquiry Form

Together, we can help people experiencing homelessness stay healthy, dignified, and hopeful.

Thank you in advance for your generosity.

Warm regards,

MZ