Running London Marathon for Aisling Project

On Sunday, 21 April I will be running the London Marathon. I'm raising money in aid of THE AISLING PROJECT and every donation will help.

The aims of the Aisling Project are:

• Reaching out to Irish people who are vulnerable, isolated and alone.

• Providing supported holidays in Ireland for long-term emigrants, fulfilling what is for many a dream of seeing their homeland again.

• Helping long-term emigrants reconnect with their families and friends.

• Helping long-term emigrants resettle in Ireland.

• Offering a friendly supportive service in an environment that encourages self-worth and personal development.

• Building trust in order to develop future support and continuing friendship.

Aisling Return to Ireland project was begun by workers in the London Irish Centre and Arlington house, the biggest homeless hostel in Europe which has been home to more Irish men than any other building outside Ireland. In 2006 Arlington celebrated its centenary with a complete refurbishment which now provides the remaining 95 tenants with brighter and more spacious accommodation in the iconic building.

The numbers in the hostel today contrast with the 1,200 who lived there when it was originally run by Rowton enterprises in the first 80 years and then 400 when it was managed by Camden council 30 years ago. It is the end of the hostel as a mass provider of temporary accommodation but will be the first time many of these men have had a home of their own.

Aisling has expanded its activities over the last 12 years to include organisations and centres right across London, to ensure that they make contact with as many Irish people as possible in need of their services.

Thank you in advance for your contribution to this cause.