Hackney Migrant Centre runs the Hackney Half

-> Our runners <-

15 staff members, volunteers and supporters of Hackney Migrant Centre (HMC) will run the Hackney Half Marathon on the 21st of May 2023 to fundraise for the vital work that we do. For some runners this is their first-ever race, so will be quite the challenge!

-> What we do <-

Hackney Migrant Centre delivers a free, weekly advice and support service for vulnerable migrants on immigration, housing, welfare and access to healthcare. We are based in Stoke Newington and offer services to migrants, refugees and asylum seekers regardless of their immigration status, nationality or current place of residence.

The majority of visitors to HMC have no current valid immigration status, despite many having compelling legal cases to remain in the UK, including experiencing persecution in their countries of origin, arriving in the UK as children or having strong family and other ties to the UK.

Without support, it is expensive and difficult to regularise immigration status, and the UK government's Hostile Environment has made surviving more and more difficult for those with irregular status. Last year, 43% of our visitors were experiencing homelessness, 69% had no recourse to public funds and 32% had a disability or other significant physical or mental health concern.

Any money donated will be used to fund immigration advice to help visitors understand their circumstances; support finding a legal representative to work on their cases; and help to access legal aid. HMC also offers emergency poverty relief and destitution support for immediate needs. As well as providing a hot community lunch each week, our team of over 50 volunteers help make referrals to food banks, night shelters and baby banks.

Any contribution to our fundraiser is greatly appreciated. If you don't have the funds at this time, sharing this page with family or friends would really help too.

Thank you!