A man from Harrow is set to embark on an epic challenge to raise money for the homeless this Christmas.
Craig Whittenbury, 38, who was born and bred right here in Harrow, is doing a huge 20-mile walk on Christmas Day in aid of Shelter, a charity that works to alleviate the distress caused by homelessness and bad housing. They help people find and keep a home along with campaigning for decent housing for all.
Speaking to Harrow Online about his upbringing in Harrow, Craig said: “So I was brought up in Harrow Weald, just off Carmelite Road. I went to Cedars First and Middle School and Hatch End High School.”
“I’m walking for the charity – Shelter, I joined the group Walk For Homes on Facebook (that inspired me). As i’ve spent a lot of my adult life homeless, I had everything and lost it all and found myself living in a pop up tent with nothing to eat or drink. I know what it’s like to have nowhere to go, to lay at night in the snow cold, wet and hungry – shivering.
“I decided to give up my Christmas day to remind myself that there are still others out there who aren’t as fortunate as I am now. I want to raise money and awareness for the homeless people who need our help…
“Nobody would walk past a stray abandoned dog, yet we walk past human beings…that we don’t know their story or how they came to be in their current situation”, he added.
Craig has already managed to raise a few hundred pounds for the homeless through his own efforts on social media.
“I’ve been overwhelmed with the response. I honestly didn’t think anyone would sponsor me at all. However, Shelter were asking me to raise £80 target and I’ve nearly raised £400 in only a few days!. Most of the donations have come from old school friends from Harrow, either sharing my link or donating themselves,” added Craig.
”I’m walking along the South Downs Way, the trail is 100 miles in total between Winchester and Eastbourne and I’ll be hiking 20 miles on Christmas Day.”
To get involved, and to sponsor Craig on his epic charity adventure, please visit the link here.
