MISSION TO SUPPORT THE COST OF LIVING CRISES

Now, more than ever, people in England are needing more support as the cost of living stifiles the nation, the vulnerable need our help more than ever before.

One local running group has certainly been making a difference in the local community. GoodGym – a not-for-profit organisation founded in 2009 that encourages people to combine exercise with doing something good for their community – has thrown its weight behind several of Get Rid of and Donate’s projects.

During 90-minute sessions in December, approximately 30-40 GoodGym volunteers ran together to St Faith's Church in North Dulwich where “we sorted through donations of toys and books and put them into bags for boys and girls in need,” explained Mark Gilyead, Goodgym Lambeth’s area activator.

Mark and his runners threw themselves into the initiative with gusto. “It was a challenge trying to figure out what a boy of a certain age would want but it was fun,” smiled Mark. As if that wasn’t enough, the volunteering slash running group  “helped with the rough sleeper project, filling up bags with essentials for those experiencing homelessness” For as the cold draws in and the nights get longer life becomes even more difficult for those without permanent homes.

GoodGym Lambeth clearly believes in taking action. “I saw a Facebook post about the project which fitted in brilliantly with our remit – making use of people’s old stuff and repurposing it – and reached out,” said Mark.

He and his runners haven't regretted it: “Getting involved with Andrea and Get Rid of and Donate has been fantastic. It’s been both fun and fulfilling.”

If you’re still looking for inspiration when it comes to making meaningful new year's resolutions for 2021, why not get in touch with GoodGym Lambeth (www.goodgym.org/areas/lambeth) and tackle that lockdown weight while giving back to the community.