Inmates at HMP Leeds have come together for the second time to raise funds and food for Simon on the Streets.
Their previous fundraising event was held in December 2020 and organised by HMP Leeds resident Joe Outlaw who created a group called System Grown with the aim of spreading kindness.
The latest fundraising event was organised by staff and prisoners on the ISFL wing at HMP Leeds, led by resident Damien McKeen. They organised a 5km charity fun run around the grounds of HMP Leeds.
The charity run allowed prisoners and staff to do something enjoyable, test themselves and raise money for charity. Homelessness is a cause close to hearts of many of the prisoners on the ISFL wing.
Their efforts raised £365.20 along with a collection of food donations for Simon on the Streets to distribute.
We would like to thank everyone who took part and donated.
In a letter to Simon on the Streets, Damien McKeen said,
“I found the opportunity to be able to take part in something for charity. We all take a lot for granted everyday and forget we may find ourselves relying on donations like these to survive one day. So it is very important we take the time out to give back and do what we can for the less fortunate. If it was not for all the hard work and dedication staff at Simon on the streets put in then, fundraisers we organise would not be possible. It is a big team effort and everyone who has helped to organise it, get donations or donate should be proud of what we have achieved together.”
Natalie Moran, CEO of Simon on the Streets, said:
“We were amazed to receive the support of HMP Leeds prisoners in December 2020, and can’t thank everyone enough for fundraising for us once again. It’s been amazing to provide food for 50 people across the streets in Leeds and the money raised will go towards continuing to provide emotional and practical support for people experiencing homelessness.”