On Sunday morning, Wesley Mission’s team braved the windy weather in their branded singlets to run in the City2Surf in support of our vital Homeless Services. Cheering them across the finish line, our volunteers had to pull on their beanies and scarves to fight off the cold!
But the chilly temperatures couldn’t cool people’s enthusiasm or the excitement in the air. Especially when our runners and walkers finally made it to Bondi Beach after their 14 km slog from Hyde Park in Sydney’s CBD–via the notorious ‘Heartbreak Hill’.
Over $10,000 were raised by our fabulous team of homelessness heroes, which was a great achievement! Their incredible effort will give relief to people without shelter this winter, helping fund our services including crisis accommodation at Wesley Edward Eagar Lodge.
A huge thank you to everyone who ran, walked or donated to support this vital work, including our awesome supporters from Ernst & Young, and all our staff who took part and fundraised.
Bella Sattout, from Ernst & Young–signed up to run after doing corporate volunteering at Wesley Mission.
“I decided to help sponsor and raise money for Wesley Mission for the City2Surf… I’m actually kind of amazed that I did it to be honest, I don’t think I have done 14 km before! It was amazing and I’m really thankful for everyone organising it.”
“I feel absolutely pumped,” said Ian Ferguson. “That was the best experience I’ve had in many, many years. I loved every second of it. I think if we can just do a little something to help people who need it, why wouldn’t we?”
Running with his wife Miriam, Benito Lopez also loved getting involved.
“I did it for the camaraderie and it’s fun, just to enjoy the city while you help the homeless.”
Stavroula Dunkerley said she had to dig deep to finish, but the feeling afterwards made the effort worth it.
“At first I thought ‘oh, it’s just 14 km!’ but it was one of the most gruelling races. I didn’t think I’d finish it. But it feels amazing. What motivates me is just seeing the work we do for people experiencing homelessness. And the last few nights have been so cold, my thoughts did go out to people who have no home.”
Head over to our Facebook page now to see Team Wesley Mission in action.
Run for Wesley Mission
Wesley Mission will continue to raise funds for people struggling with homelessness at the Blackmores Sydney Running Festival on Sunday 15 September and Tough Mudder on Saturday 16 November.
Join us for the next events in our calendar.