Off the Street On Our Feet: Rough Sleepers Race to Support Fletcher Street Cottage

In an inspiring effort to raise funds and awareness for our community’s most vulnerable, a small team who have personally faced homelessness are preparing to participate in the highly anticipated Gold Coast Half Marathon on July 1. Their mission is to support Fletcher Street Cottage, a unique space  in Byron Bay that provides basic services such as food, showers, laundry, and direct support such as advocacy and referrals.

Breaking Stereotypes One Step at a Time

Mathew Broster, the team leader who was once a rough sleeper himself, is spearheading this incredible initiative to give back to the cottage that played a pivotal role in helping him to get back on his feet. He expressed his determination to make a difference by leading the Fletcher Street Cottage Running Team.

Mathew shared his personal journey, stating:

At Fletcher Street Cottage, many of us rely on the morning breakfast, showers, laundry and shelter as essential means for survival. By bringing together a strong group of us who have experienced rough sleeping, running side by side, we aim to create awareness and break the stereotypes and stigmas related to homelessness.

The Running Team are actively participating in weekly training sessions supported by the Byron Bay Runners club and culminating in the Gold Coast Half Marathon. By doing so, the team hopes to raise $10K to support Fletcher Street Cottage.

With a running coach to guide us, arrangements made for a dogsitter, a scenic coastline to run on, and a consistent training program in place, we have a clear plan - to get Off the Street, On Our Feet. Every donation we receive motivates us to keep going. Please donate to this initiative and support rough sleepers in the Byron community.

Fletcher Street Cottage, a lifeline for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness, depends entirely on the support and generosity of the community it serves. With no ongoing government funding, people from all walks of life are encouraged to support this extraordinary effort, not only to help those in need but also to empower and uplift these inspiring individuals as they work towards improving their health and forging connections within the community.

The Power of Collective Action

The journey towards the marathon's finish line will undoubtedly be challenging, but it will be a symbol of resilience, hope and unity. The efforts of the Fletcher Street Cottage Running Team serve as an inspiration to the wider community, showcasing the potential for transformation and the power of collective action in addressing homelessness.

To support this worthy cause and contribute to the success of the Fletcher Street Cottage Running Team, individuals and businesses are encouraged to make donations. By doing so, they can play an active role in changing lives, breaking down barriers, and building a stronger and more inclusive community.

Let us come together, rally behind these incredible individuals, and help them reach the finish line, one step at a time.

For more information about the marathon fundraiser or to make a donation, please visit: https://www.pozible.com/project/off-the-street-on-our-feet 

To become a sponsor, contact fsc@byroncentre.com.au or (02) 6685 6807.

Presented by Byron Community Centre and Fletcher Street Cottage

Sponsors

Proudly sponsored by Byron Bay Runners Club and The Healthy Minds Club

Gold Coast Half Marathon

Gold Coast Half Marathon, July 1st 2023
Proudly supported by Byron Community Centre