Graham Wells ran the Comrades virtually last year and he did it barefoot; this year he is taking on the marathon again, supporting the same cause – to help build a shelter in Pietermaritzburg.
Pietermaritzburg, South Africa (25 August 2022) – The need for more homeless shelters is felt across South Africa. However, come winter or a global pandemic, it becomes evident that there are not enough beds for people who need them. Graham Wells hopes to help in building a new homeless shelter in Pietermaritzburg.
To do this, Graham, age 45, from Pelham in Pietermaritzburg, will take on his 8th Comrades Marathon barefoot! He plans to run from Pietermaritzburg to Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. Wells undertook this incredible feat last year, running from Mooi River to Town Hill, doing his Comrades virtually.
Partnering with One Life Foundation, Graham 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. The One Life Foundation is a not-for-profit company that promotes social justice and community upliftment. To date, Graham has raised over R33,000 towards his goal.
“I’m a firm believer that running medals don’t mean anything unless you have made a difference for someone else.
I would love for you to partner with us and support me, as I run the the Comrades Marathon, to help raise awareness and funds for this initiative. “
He hopes this will be the year that he hits the goal and can contribute even more towards the shelter build. You can help him via BackaBuddy here.
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
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