CHURCHES, individuals and community groups across Wales are walking the length of two nations in a mammoth fundraising challenge.
The Baptist Union of Wales and international development agency Christian Aid Cymru have started clocking up their steps in a bid to reach their target of 750 miles – the length of Wales and Zimbabwe.
From now until October, fundraisers are stepping out as part of WALK! Wales & Zimbabwe, in solidarity with farming communities, living under a declaration of a state of disaster thanks to a devastating drought sweeping across much of
southern Africa.
The challenge is part of a larger appeal – called Talents of Hope – which empowers agricultural communities through training and support from Christian Aid’s local partners, to build resilience and find ways to combat the issues they face.
Sioned Graves, from the Baptist Union of Wales said: “We’re asking people to commit to walking the number of miles it would take to cross the length of Wales and Zimbabwe. If you’re able to walk even half a mile – you can join us. “We will be out and about from now until October, which is from Zimbabwe’s harvest time up until our harvest in Wales – so there’s plenty of time to organise a walk.
“Our latest outing was in Llansteffan where we walked six miles, bringing our group’s total to 21. We also have 120 miles pledged by supporters, which is great. We’re looking forward to more people joining in this challenge as the weather gets better.”
Head of Christian Aid Wales, Mari McNeill said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Baptist Union of Wales for this exciting challenge for the Talents of Hope Appeal.
“We hope it will strengthen the connection between the two nations and raise awareness and support for Christian Aid’s work among some of the poorest communities in Zimbabwe.”
Anyone can take part – on their own or as a group – and the miles will be counted per individual walker. People are encouraged to share their photos and experiences on social media, using the hashtag #talentsofhopeWALK.
Walkers can be sponsored per walk or per mile and use a personalised JustGiving page to raise funds.
You can sign up by visiting The Baptist Union of Wales website or clicking here.
