Meet the man who traveled 155 miles on foot and slept rough to raise funds for the Big Help Project

Darren Cowley set off on an impressive journey, spanning 155 miles from Whitley Bay to Liverpool, carrying nothing but his camping equipment; to raise funds for Big Help Project (Knowsley Foodbank).

Darren completed his task in Liverpool after arriving at Hope House, Boaler Street in Kensington, at 10:00pm.

He was welcomed by his family, along with Big Help Project’s CEO Peter Mitchell, Assistant CEO Colette Goulding, and Trustee Steve Boulger.

Darren spoke about what a challenge the past week had been for him; sleeping rough, having limited access to essentials, and non-stop walking in terrible weather conditions to raise funds for Knowsley Foodbank.

 All the proceeds of Darren’s fundraiser is to support the most vulnerable people in the community who are going hungry because they simply cannot afford food.

Darren wanted to help those experiencing poverty in the community who are struggling to put food on the table and will need to visit Knowsley Foodbank. He said, “the requirement for foodbanks in our community is an absolute disgrace and is heart-breaking. Anyone can fall on hard times – that’s just life.”

Big Help Project is dedicated to the fight against the injustices of poverty and ensure that those in need have access to invaluable support services to tackle poverty in all its forms.

Food Operations Manager at Big Help Project, Antonia Bell says:

“We are absolutely amazed at the lengths the people in our community will go to, to help people in need that they will never meet. This huge amount of money that Darren has raised in less than a week will ensure that we can replenish our food shelves at Knowsley Foodbank – the prolonged effect of the pandemic has meant food donations have suffered.

“Darren’s challenge has come at a time when many people will be in a position where they will be forced to choose between eating food or heating their home, as well as the removal of the Covid-19 uplift being removed from Universal Credit and other benefits.

“We are extremely grateful to Darren for helping us to ensure nobody in Knowsley goes hungry this winter, foodbanks could not help the most vulnerable without the support of people like Darren and his donors.”

Find out more about Big Help Project and the work they do in the community by visiting their website here.