Graham Wells (45) from Pelham in Pietermaritzburg, will take on his 8th Comrades Marathon on 28 August 2022.
Running barefoot from Pietermaritzburg to Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, Graham has decided to dedicate his 90km challenge to the plight of the growing homeless population in Pietermaritzburg, Kwa-Zulu Natal.
“I’m a firm believer that running medals don’t mean anything unless you have made a difference for someone else. ” – says Graham
Partnering with One Life Foundation, Graham has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy called “Run for a roof”, to raise R250 000 towards the estimated R1 million needed to fund a much needed homeless shelter in the area.
“Whilst out training in the freezing cold mornings, I am always struck by the number of homeless in our city. As we complain about the weather getting colder, imagine what it must get like living on the street, in a park or on a field. These are normal people, like you and I, and for whatever reason, have found themselves in a difficult situation and, consequently, homeless.” – says Graham
Since the launch of his campaign, Graham has raised over R33 000 with kind contributions from 32 donors. Funds raised will not only cover the cost to build the housing structure, but also provide the homeless with the appropriate rehabilitation services to re-build their own lives.
Having worked in social housing in the United Kingdom, helping the homeless has always been close to Graham’s heart.
“I have a dream to see a safe, friendly, people-centred shelter, in Pietermaritzburg, where people of any race or background can be welcomed and empowered to make something better of themselves. By coming together to fund this project we have an opportunity to change the face of homelessness in our City and restore dignity to those society has left behind. Everyone deserves kindness and a second chance” – says Graham
Support Graham’s campaign by donating here: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/runforaroof
Alternatively, donate via Snapscan: https://pos.snapscan.io/qr/runforaroof
Connect with One Life Foundation
The One Life Foundation’s beginnings are closely tied to the life of One Life Church; a church founded in Pietermaritzburg in 1973.
“We believe we can demonstrate the love of Christ through promoting social justice and caring for the poor and needy in our communities.”
For more information, visit http://onelifefoundation.co.za/
Connect with Porky’s
Porky’s People NPC, is a non-profit organisation and Charity Marketing Consultancy based in South Africa. We share inspiring South African stories, charitable causes and information worth spreading. 🌍 💜Our passion is people and non-profits.WhatsApp Us – Subscribe to our Newsletter – Find us on social media @porkyspeople.
Expert Marketing & Media Consultant Services for Non-Profit Organisations
We provide Marketing, Media and Social Media support to non-profit organisations both locally and abroad. Our Services.
Create a crowdfunding campaign
South Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy has supported more than 10 000+ individuals and charities in setting up fundraising campaigns for medical fees, tuition and various causes in South Africa. The platform has thus far raised over R310 Million.
- Raise funds for an individual or cause.
- Register your non-profit organisation.
- Create a crowdfunding campaign to raise funds for a non-profit organisation.
