How running gives the homeless a goal

A UNIQUE running project has given homeless people a big boost.

The Home Run Project uses running to unite the homeless community.

And they have a big goal to work towards – they’ve signed up for next year’s Great North Run.

The team behind it says running can boost the mental health and wellbeing of the homeless population in Calderdale, where the project covers.

The ABS Foundation, the charity arm of Elland-based print specialists ABS UK Ltd, have teamed up with Community Foundation for Calderdale (CFFC) and Calderdale SmartMove to deliver the Home Run Project.

It aims to help participants deal with and overcome issues typically associated with homelessness, including alcohol and drug addiction, stress and depression.

But they do need your help – as the dark nights draw in project organisers are appealing for donations of suitable running equipment, such as trainers, clothing and hi-vis gear, to help those that are taking part in the project.

There are 12 participants involved in the project since its launch in April this year and already they have been making great progress, both in their training and general wellbeing.

Kev Sheils, participant of The Home Run Project, said: “The Home Run Project is fantastic. I’ve been going every week since it started.

“I am a recovering addict and now 19 months clean and I was looking for something just like this project to get involved with.

“It’s given me a goal, something to focus on and has very much increased my fitness to a new level.

“Training for the Great North Run was never something I would have been able to do but now with the help and support of everyone involved I’m very much ready to run and looking forward to it.

“I’ve just completed my first 10k race in 55 mins. It really is a great project and I feel proud to be a part of it.”

Training sessions takes place at Calderdale College in Halifax every Wednesday night run by personal trainer Damian Gibson, who volunteers his time. New participants are welcome to join at any time.

David Lees, of ABS UK, said: “We’re delighted to see how much the project has already achieved since its launch five months ago. The overall aim is to get as many participants to take part in the 2018 Great North Run but already we’re seeing how valuable the project has become to some of those taking part.

“Running is a structured discipline that gives a feeling of accomplishment when achieved and we hope these benefits will translate into the participants’ daily life and they can start to build the future they want by believing in themselves.”

To help connect via Twitter @ HomeRun_Project or contact SmartMove on 01422 361515.