Hope not Homelessness

Around 40 years ago I and other friends did a sponsored walk down the Derwent Walk from Rowlands Gill to Swalwell in Gateshead, (about 5km) to raise money to register a new housing association. We had come together to see what we could do to meet the needs of homeless young people. That sponsorship money planted the seed that over the years has grown from Aquila Housing Association to Oasis Community Housing which we know today.

I am walking again now because walking, which I love, is something I can give in order to support Oasis Community Housing. I was privileged to visit some of the projects in Gateshead earlier this year and have seen first hand the hard work, dedication, faith and enthusiasm of the staff and workers. I want to highlight the work of the charity by starting at one of their projects in Peckham, South London and walk via Peterborough, Sunderland and South Shields back home to Gateshead where it all began.

The route I am taking, makes use of "Slow Ways". It's another passion of mine. You can find out more about them on their website. It has given me a straightforward way of planning a walking route. I'll be reviewing routes on the way. The route is available to view here. You are welcome to join me at any stage of the walk.

I am walking to raise money and awareness but I am also walking with thankfulness for what God has done. Little did I think 40 years on I would be walking again for Aquila/Oasis Community Housing.

I am going to attempt to negotiate the paths of social media too, to get the message out and to give daily updates.

During this walk you can find me on Facebook and maybe even on Twitter

For more reflective musings and potentially more photos you can check out my blog on Granite Roots.

Oasis Community Housing isn't just about the houses - but about the people who need a home.

I do ask you all to give however much you can so more will find Hope not Homelessness.