Charlotte completes the New Forest Marathon in aid of New Hope!

Congratulations to Charlotte Mangam, Senior Analyst at TK Maxx, who raised £724 by taking part in the New Forest Marathon.

Charlotte writes:

“It was quite the first marathon experience! The route had been changed due to COVID restrictions so we ran a new marathon course which consisted of a whole variety of challenging terrains! Added to this, no spectators were allowed at the event. But of course my parents found a way to sneak onto the side-lines with the two dogs and, on the two occasions I slogged past, cheered me on whole heartedly. Although parts were pretty challenging, I absolutely loved the whole experience and feel very proud of myself for completing it in 4 hours 36 minutes.     

It has been amazing to see so many friends, colleagues and relatives sponsor me for the race. I first heard of New Hope through TK Maxx as we donate homeware and other necessities to the Sanctuary. I started volunteering there last year, making dinner once a week, and sadly had to stop due to lockdown. Although my cooking probably wasn’t the best they had ever tasted, I really enjoyed chatting to both staff and resident users for the hours I was there. 

What struck me was how difficult it can be for people to get back on their feet in our society and without the tireless efforts of charities like New Hope it would be nigh on impossible. The shelter residents range from young guys around my age who have been turfed out by their families due to life style choices to older divorcees where work injuries have affected their employment prospects. All of these things happen so quickly for a lot of the residents that they would still be coming to terms with the situation they found themselves on arrival at the shelter..

I hope to go back to the shelter and get back into my old routine! On the other hand I am not quite as keen to sign up to another marathon anytime soon…”

A big thank you to Charlotte and to everyone who supported her!