Walk, run or swim this Christmas to help fundraise for groups across Carlow

Sanctuary Runners invites people in Carlow to get active in December and help fundraise money for groups across Carlow this Christmas.

All funds raised will be used to support Sanctuary Runner groups across Carlow and enable the multi-award-winning charity to create new groups .

Each year, Sanctuary Runners bring thousands of people together — including locals, international protection applicants, refugees and other migrants — to run, walk, paddle, swim side-by-side.

With 40 Sanctuary Runner groups nationwide, the organisation works to build bridges between communities through friendship, respect and shared experiences.

The Christmas campaign encourages participants to engage in any sort of physical activity such as walking, running or swimming 1km a day for 12-days — or simply make a donation or a gift of a donation to support Sanctuary Runners’ work. 

Speaking about the appeal, Sanctuary Runners CEO, Anna Pringle, said: “Sanctuary Runners groups do incredible work across Ireland to bring people together in solidarity, friendship and respect regardless of nationality or legal status.

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"We know that so many people want to find ways to support initiatives that build bridges in the community. Most of us want  decent and cohesive communities where everyone, including migrants, asylum seekers and refugees, is included and valued but often people are not sure how to support.

"So we’re asking people to help us to help their communities by supporting our 12Ks of Christmas Appeal. The funds will be used to remove barriers to participation for many, especially those living in direct provision. To help us provide running tops, running gear, and transport for those who can’t afford them.”

Donations ensure that no one is ever excluded due to cost, allowing for people to come together in Carlow, meet their neighbours, and build friendships.

As part of this year’s campaign, Sanctuary Runners created a unique and fun singing project that will unfold across the 12 days. Each day from December 9th to 20th, the organisation will share a small snippet on its social media channels.

Recorded at Blackwater Studios in North Cork it’s performed by Sanctuary Runner crooners Ayodeji Ogunjimi and Maeve O’Callaghan who are both members of the Fermoy Sanctuary Runners group.

How to Take Part:

• Join the 12ks of Christmas challenge (1km a day, any movement, any pace)
  

• Make a donation
  

• Gift a donation to a loved one and download a ‘gift of solidarity’ certificate

All options are available via the campaign link:

https://eventmaster.ie/fundraising/campaign/step-up-for-solidarity-join-us-for-the-12ks-of-christmas