STUDENTS from Wellington College have helped the work of Home-Start Wokingham, one of its chosen charities of the year.
The Wellington College Leaders meet every Wednesday to work on projects for the greater good.
Among them, 17-year-old Venice McCerlain ran her first-ever half-marathon in Wokingham a few weeks ago and raised more than £1,800.
“Having lost my father when I was younger, I know from personal experience that charities such as Home-Start can have a massive impact on easing physical and psychological pressure in family life,” she said.
“Knowing that there are so many people within our country who suffer from immense poverty, grief and pain is really heart-breaking.
“Many families have to be turned away from Home-Start due to a lack of funding and the demand on the charity is only getting bigger as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I am really proud to say that I have now raised £1,800 which will enable more families to receive the help they need.”
She said she was spurred on during the race by the crowds’ support.
“There wasn’t a moment during the run in which people were not cheering or clapping,” she continued. “It was definitely one of the most physically and psychologically demanding challenges I have ever completed.
“As I was running I couldn’t stop thinking about the impact the money raised would have on the lives of families around the Wokingham Borough. That was truly what motivated me to keep running.”
Since then Wellington Leaders appealed to fellow pupils to donate Easter eggs, treats and toys for Home-Start’s Easter Goody Bags.
More than 50 of them were delivered in the run-up to Easter.
A spokesperson for Home-Start Wokingham said: “We are incredibly grateful to Wellington College for allowing their pupils to devote time and energy to supporting Home-Start and very much hope to work with them again in the future.”
