A grandfather from Lincolnshire is embarking on a challenging 200-mile coastal walk to raise funds for emergency relief following devastating earthquakes in South America. Mike Joyce, 74, from Winterton, will trek along the North East coast to support the Disasters Emergency Committee appeal, with funds going to Christian Aid.
Walking for a Cause
Joyce has already raised thousands of pounds for Christian Aid through previous long-distance walking challenges. This year's journey will help local humanitarian teams provide emergency medical treatment, food, and clean drinking water to survivors of the double earthquake disaster that struck on June 24, the strongest to hit the nation since 1900.
Many families have been left homeless and are sleeping in makeshift tents on the street. The funds raised will also help families begin rebuilding their lives.
Mike Joyce's Statement
“Each year I take on a long-distance walking challenge in support of Christian Aid, and it has become our church's main annual fundraiser for this vital cause,” Joyce said. “With the generous support of our church family and the wider community, we have been able to raise valuable funds that help Christian Aid tackle poverty and injustice around the world.”
“This year my challenge is to walk over 200 miles of the North East of England Coast path from the Humber Bridge to the Scottish Border,” he continued. “Over the next few weeks, I will walk from the Humber Bridge to Filey across five separate days, before setting off on the first of September to walk continuously from Saltburn to the Scottish Border, just north of Berwick.”
“Whether it's cheering me on at a stage of the walk or making a donation, every bit of support is greatly appreciated and will help Christian Aid continue its life-changing work,” he concluded.
Impact of the Earthquakes
The double earthquake disaster, the strongest since 1900, reduced buildings to rubble and was felt by residents in neighbouring countries and across the Caribbean. Local aid agencies and international partners are distributing urgent shelter and essential supplies to affected communities.
Members of the public can support the walking challenge or find out more about Christian Aid's work online. To sponsor the challenge, visit the online donation page at www.justgiving.com/page/mikes-north-east-coast-path-challenge-for-venezuela. For more information, visit www.christianaid.org.uk.
