Shelter Cymru, Crisis, Llamau and The Wallich unite against homelessness for 20th Cardiff Half Marathon
Four homelessness charities in Wales have come together to encourage would-be event participants to support their common cause and sign up for the 2023 Cardiff Half Marathon.
Shelter Cymru, Crisis, Llamau and The Wallich have joined forces for this year’s Cardiff Half Marathon to put a spotlight on the impact they have, both individually and collectively, on supporting people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
In the last year, Wales has seen the highest rent rises in the UK outside London, while housing benefits have remained static. And yet a recent YouGov survey[1] has highlighted that, in terms of popularity, not a single housing or homelessness charity features in the current Top 40 most popular causes in the UK.
Kerys Sheppard, Head of Fundraising for Shelter Cymru, said: “We greatly appreciate the generosity of our supporters; without them, we simply wouldn’t be able to help those who need us. That said, funding our work is becoming increasingly challenging for us all. Major health charities, global development groups and animal charities dominate the fundraising arena, and have done so for some time. Meanwhile, rent has skyrocketed, people are unable to pay their energy bills and are cutting back on grocery essentials. Many households are relying on food banks and the financial impact of the cost of living crisis has caused more people to worry about keeping a roof over their heads. Getting the right help, at the right time, can mean the very real difference between someone keeping their safe place of refuge – their home – or sleeping on the streets. We believe that home is everything. Now, more than ever, we really need more people to join our collective fight against homelessness and support us however they can.”
According to figures released by the Welsh Government at the beginning of 2023, more than 140 people were rough sleeping and 9,400 people – including 2,800 children – were in temporary accommodation, waiting for a settled home.[2]
The Cardiff Half, which will take place on Sunday 1 October, is described by organisers Run4Wales (R4W) as “a fast, flat, iconic road race around Wales’ capital city”. More than £3 million is raised for good causes through the Cardiff Half each year, with hundreds of charities represented.
Deborah Powell, R4W Director, said: “It’s wonderful to see these charities coming together to do something special in this milestone year. This ‘strength through unity’ approach will really amplify the awareness and fundraising messages for all involved, highlighting the significant contribution these charities make to people in housing need in Wales. It’s part of the R4W way that we work with our partners to make sure they maximise their involvement. Four homelessness charities working together under one banner is a great example of collaboration within the sector.”
General event entry places are expected to sell out soon, meaning runners will need to sign-up through an official charity. It is hoped that the collaboration between Shelter Cymru, Crisis, Llamau and The Wallich will make their cause an obvious one for participants to support this year.
