Fourteen vendors, three Womens’ Social Enterprise workers and three Street Soccer players joined staff and supporters to form the largest ever City2Surf team from The Big Issue on August 14. The team also raised the most money from the City2Surf fun run for The Big Issue.
Chris Campbell, the State Operations Manager of The Big Issue in NSW said he was touched by the support. “Hearing people shout out ‘Go Big Issue’ from the sidelines really meant a lot to me and all the team. One of our vendors made it to Bondi with his walker. Another vendor finished the 14 kilometres on his motorised wheelchair. That may not have been possible had it not been for a member of the public who was kind enough to help charge up his battery at the top of heartbreak hill.”
Pyrmont vendor Rachel agreed: “It was amazing to see so many people in one place enjoying themselves, especially the people running to the people who came out and gave support along the way. My legs were painful for weeks after, but it was worth it.”
Newtown vendor Robbo said, “It wasn’t as easy as it seems, especially at the end. Once I stopped at the end it was hard to walk again. It was a lot of fun though. Along the way I was giving high fives to all those who came out to support the runners. I’m already looking forward to it next year.”
With 371 donations to the group, the fundraising helped highlight to many that they were supported and valued by their community. “Some donations blew me off my feet” admitted David S.
A big thank you from all at The Big Issue for the support you show us every day.
