This May I am running the Hackney Half Marathon to raise money for The Brightside Project.

In February a Norfolk Southern train derailed, spilling large amounts of hazardous waste near the town of East Palestine, Ohio. This event has forever changed the environment and safety of the area, and now the residents are left to deal with the lifelong consequences due to the negligence and corporate greed of Norfolk Southern.

Residents are being advised to use bottled water, local farms/gardens are unsure of whether or not they can eat their food, and many people are looking into relocation. None of the solutions being advised to these people are cheap, which is why I hope to fundraise £300 ($361) to donate to The Brightside Project, a local organization helping the residents of East Palestine navigate this disaster.

See a statement from The Brightside Project below:

“ On Feb. 3, 2023, a Norfolk Southern train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio.

East Palestine is a small town in Columbiana County, just 20 minutes from where The Brightside Project is located. The train derailment forced an evacuation for several days. Even after being allowed back in their homes the residents of East Palestine are questioning the safety of their community after all of the toxins from the chemicals being carried on that train were released into the atmosphere and into community water sources. Many medical professionals, including the Ohio Department of Health, have recommended that residents drink bottled water.

The Brightside Project is providing crisis relief in the short-term and is committed to serving East Palestine for the long-haul. How can you help? Give $5 or $50, whatever you can afford. Every dollar given to The Brightside Project East Palestine Crisis Relief Fund will be given to the residents of East Palestine.”

Please consider donating, and thank you for taking the time to read/share this! xx