Tooting resident Josie Gaunt of local charity Evolve Housing Support writes about how runners fundraised for the charity and how one of their service users has benefitted after recently becoming homeless.

On Sunday, five brilliant fundraisers braved the rain and the cold to take part in the Royal Parks Half Marathon to fundraise for Evolve Housing Support. Between them they raised a whopping £1,657.37 which goes directly to helping homeless people like Sharon move on to positive independence.

Sharon’s story

Sharon became homeless when her friends were taking advantage of her and were caught smoking cannabis in her house, resulting in her being evicted and ending a 16-year tenancy.

This was Sharon’s first time being homeless and she didn’t know where to turn. Struggling with learning difficulties, Sharon found the process devastating and her mental health took a turn for the worse as she became depressed.

Sharon was signposted to Evolve through Croydon Council and was given a place at Alexandra House, one of Evolve’s supported accommodation services. Here, Sharon found the journey difficult to start with, but soon fell in love with the place and the community it is, making friends with other residents and forming a bond her support worker.

“You don’t realise the importance of having a home and somewhere to live until you lose it. It gives you your independence and is a huge part of your life. Evolve gave me the opportunity to move on and get my life back on track.”

Evolve has launched the first of a new video series of real people who have experienced homelessness and been supported by Evolve to regain their independence. See here for the full video.

Thinking of taking part in a challenge event but not sure where to start? Hannah, our amazing Community and Challenge Events Officer, will support you all the way! To find out more about challenge events please contact hannah.ward@evolvehousing.org.uk. For any other enquiries about Evolve or for corporate partnership opportunities please contact josie.gaunt@evolvehousing.org.uk.

This article would not be possible without the support of our fantastic Community Partners. Click here to find out more.