Why I made 100 Mile Challenge Part of my Bucket List

Every year our 100 Mile Challenge invites fundraisers to cover the distance in whatever way suits them between 1^st September and World Homeless Day on the 10^th October. Last year, Lyndsey went the extra mile (!) and made it a 100+384 Mile Challenge! Here, she tells Social Bite’s Senior Event Executive Ross why she did it, and how she got on.

 

Setting a bucket list challenge

Lyndsey: “In September 2024 I was planning on taking on a bucket list experience of walking the whole length of the Camino De Santiago across Northern Spain: a total of 484 miles in a month.

“When I heard Social Bite’s 100 Mile Challenge was happening at the same time it was a total no-brainer to sign up and support Social Bite!

“I really admire Social Bite’s mission and how they support people experiencing homelessness in so many different ways, particularly that they support the full journey back into work and housing.

“Their coffee shops are such an important example of how giving basic kindness to people in tough times goes a huge way. It’s something we should all do a lot more of.”

Ross: “One of my favourite things about the 100 Mile Challenge is seeing the many wonderful, creative challenges each year that our supporters set themselves to complete their miles.

“Lyndsey’s challenge – taking on a Camino and walking 484 miles in a month – is one of the biggest challenges we’ve seen a supporter complete in terms of distance for sure. Incorporating our 100 Mile Challenge and support for Social Bite into her once-in-a-lifetime experience is brilliant idea.”

Clocking up the miles with memorable moments

Lyndsey: “Unsurprisingly, walking 484 miles was really difficult – but it was undoubtedly the best experience of my life!

“Of course, there were difficult moments alongside the good. It’s safe to say I cried and laughed in equal measure.

“I’ve created memories that will last a lifetime, with one day particularly sticking in my mind – when I found myself walking in a midst of hurricane. I had to change my walking shoes in a panic halfway through! That’s definitely not an everyday walking experience, but it’s something I’ll never forget.”

Ross: “I was blown away not only by Lyndsey’s dedication to clocking up the miles but also collecting donations every step of the way as well. I’m delighted she was able to finish her walk with a final fundraising total sitting at an incredible £775.

“We know the impact this fundraising can have on helping Social Bite to break the cycle of homelessness, so I really can’t thank Lyndsey enough for her efforts.”

Every step you take helps people who are homeless

Lyndsey: “Spreading the word about my challenge and why I was choosing to support Social Bite really helped me in my fundraising efforts. I shared my challenge on social media but also made sure to reach out to my friends and family directly to let them know I was supporting Social Bite.

“Whilst completing my miles I also wore my Social Bite t-shirt. I had people stopping to ask me questions about Social Bite and donating as well, which was great!

“I’m so happy I took part in the 100 Mile Challenge as part of completing the Camino De Santiago. For me, the best part was meeting some of the most incredible people who were all walking for different reasons. I built amazing friendships and got to share Social Bite’s story, too.”

Ross: “If you’re inspired by Lyndsey, it’s not too late to walk, run or cycle 100 miles! Find out more and register your challenge today to get fundraising for people affected by homelessness.”