Mel is raising money towards the Magpie Project

Becoming a parent has given me a whole new perspective on the challenges some families in London face, especially those living in insecure housing. That’s why I’m running the Kew Gardens half marathon on Sunday 30 March and fundraising for The Magpie Project, a London-based grassroots charity that supports mothers and young children experiencing homelessness, poverty, and uncertainty.

The project provides vital services, including advocacy, emotional support, food, clothing, and safe spaces for children to play. Many of the families it helps are at risk of homelessness or dealing with the trauma of domestic violence, and without organisations like this, they would have nowhere to turn.

Having two kids of my own, I can’t imagine facing those early years without a stable home or a support system. Fundraising is essential to keeping this work going—every donation helps provide emergency supplies, run support groups, and offer expert guidance to families navigating impossible situations.

If, like me, you believe no mother or child should have to go through this alone, please consider contributing—every little bit makes a huge difference.