Climbing Snowden for the homeless

On the 13 of September 2021, one of our fabulous Recovery Coaches, Natasha, will be travelling to Snowdonia to reach the top of the Snowdon Mountain.  Natasha, who works for Step Together in Somerset, is raising funds to supply survivor packs to those who are rough sleeping in Somerset.

The climb will be via the Miners track and in total will be 723M (2, 372ft). Natasha says

“This will be my first solo challenge to raise funds for this rewarding project.”

The most severe and visible form of homelessness is rough sleeping. Official estimates show more than 4,000 people are sleeping rough in England a night. This is set to increase due to the financial pressures from the current pandemic. Many have been placed into temporary accommodation since the last lockdown, but there has also been a small rise of unaccounted street homeless throughout the UK.

Current statistics on homelessness show –

• 7% have served in the armed forces.
• 33% of females have fled domestic violence and became homeless.
• 45% have been diagnosed with a mental health condition.
• 43% need support for substance misuse.
• 12% have been in the care system.

Natasha goes on to say

“The money I raise through this challenging climb will fund a number of life-saving vital survivor packs for rough sleepers next Winter. I know it won’t be possible to provide enough for everyone, but your money will help me support as much of Somerset as possible.”

The survivor packs will include –

• Greggs coupon
• Warm socks, hat, and gloves
• Toothpaste and brush
• Re-usable water bottle
• Cereal bars
• Plasters
• Ear plugs
• Lip balm
• Wet wipes/tissues
• Sanitary towels
• Local service information – soup kitchens, service support, Council offices, GP access, etc.

“I would also try to supply as many sleeping bags as possible to different agencies who do a fantastic job of monitoring the street counts. “

This is a big challenge, but ever so rewarding for the community. Any donation you give will make a huge difference to the lives of rough sleepers in Somerset next Winter and would be greatly appreciated.

You can donate on Natasha’s Go Fund Me page.

You can hear Natasha talking about her fundraising challenge on Taunton’s Tone FM here.