Hi, my name is Ben, and on Sunday 19th April I will be running the Manchester Marathon in aid of Umoja Boys Rescue Centre.

Umoja operate in South-East Kenya, around an hour south of Mombasa, and seek to help children living on the streets across the country. I have followed the charity closely for several years now, and in August I was fortunate enough to visit their centre. This experience allowed an insight into the meaningful work carried out by everybody associated with the trust.

The boys are brilliant, and the difference Umoja makes in providing not just a home, but through funding education, providing structure, and hope for the future, is remarkable. It was a privilege to spend 2 weeks with them.

Currently, the charity are constructing a purpose built site, which would allow for larger accommodation, greater room for sports, and space to farm their own produce and livestock. All funds raised would assist greatly in the ongoing work on this project, as well as the day-to-day running costs; namely food, clothing, and the boys' education.

I appreciate that fundraisers similar to these are commonplace during marathon season, but any donation, no matter how small, would be hugely appreciated and will go directly towards supporting the incredible work Umoja continues to do.

Thank you in advance, it really is appreciated.