Homelessness charity, St Mungo’s is urging dog owners across the UK to get active and Take the Lead in helping to end homelessness this summer. The charity is asking dog owners to walk 26.2 miles with their furry companions throughout the month of August.
The fundraising challenge is being supported by leading brands Lily’s Kitchen and Nationwide Building Society, as well as dog loving comedian and television presenter Paul O’Grady. Amongst the well-known faces will also be Instagram sensations, Marcel the Corgi and Bun the sausage dog, who along with other participants are aiming to raise £12,000, and walk a collective total of 4,266 miles – one mile for every person found rough sleeping on a single night in England last year.
As one of the leading homelessness charities in England to accept pets into their hostels, St Mungo’s recognise the hugely powerful and emotional support that animals can bring to someone who is sleeping on the streets. During this coronavirus, many people have valued the companionship and support of their pets at a time of increased loneliness and isolation.
Most recently, St Mungo’s teams have been working round the clock to support vulnerable rough sleepers out of hotels, where they have been self-isolating during the pandemic, and into permanent accommodation. So far, more than 300 people have been helped to move in to longer term accommodation, with more being supported by the charity every single day and this is just one of the many wonderful projects that your fundraising efforts will go towards helping.
Read the full press release here.
