YMCA Norfolk duo walk hills for the homeless
 Two YMCA Norfolk colleagues have completed a 75-mile sponsored walk across Cumbria to raise cash to help homeless young people in Norwich find a proper bed for the night.
After a first attempt, which ended in near disaster, in March, Housing Manager Martin Rye and Deputy Housing Manager Keith Willers have now successfully completed the 75-mile long Cumbria Way.
They have raised over £1000 to help build the new YMCA Norfolk Bethel Street accommodation scheme in Norwich.
 The first attempt at the walk ended early when a wall gave way as Martin was climbing it and a rock hit him on the head, cutting it open and needing medical treatment. Not to be deterred, the intrepid duo headed back to Cumbria over Easter to complete the challenge. You can read all about it and see the picture at Martin's Blog Summit and Valley. “Young people can often end up homeless through no fault of their own,” said Martin (pictured right). “They often have no choice but to sleep rough in the cold with nothing to keep themselves warm.”
 “While we are out in the hills of the Lake District someone is sleeping rough on the streets of Norwich, Bradford, Cardiff and so many other places,” said Martin. “We are seeking to help solve a small part of the problem of homelessness – that is to provide a safe and warm bed in a secure building with staff that care and can offer support.
“All we are asking is for people to sponsor us at least £1 which will pay for one brick towards the £70,000 we need to raise as part of the total to help build the new modern building that will make such a difference, offering a roof and warm bed for homeless young people.”
 Every pound donated will go towards the YMCA Norfolk Bethel Street Brick Appeal. Keith and Martin paid all their expenses and used their own time and annual leave to raise this money. To sponsor the duo click here
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