‘12Ks of Christmas’ new fundraising appeal launched for Clare running charity

Sanctuary Runners’ new festive campaign, the ‘Step Up for Solidarity - 12Ks of Christmas’, challenges locals to get moving in December while supporting their appeal, set to a reworked Christmas carol.

The campaign which encourages participants to engage in any type of physical activity, such as walking, for one kilometre per day for 12 days, will feature a reimagined version of the Christmas classic '12 days of Christmas'

In the Sanctuary Runners' version, it will feature lyrics such as 'seven joggers jogging' and '12 waves of welcome'.

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The song will be performed by two Sanctuary Runners and accompanied by an online feed of daily videos featuring running groups from across Ireland between December 9 and 20.

Funds raised from the campaign will be used to support the Sanctuary Runner group in Ennis, and allow for the charity to create further groups across the county.

Speaking about the appeal, Sanctuary Runners CEO, Anna Pringle, said: “Sanctuary Runners groups do incredible work across Ireland to bring people together in solidarity, friendship and respect regardless of nationality or legal status. We know that so many people want to find ways to support initiatives that build bridges in the community".

"Most of us want  decent and cohesive communities where everyone, including migrants, asylum seekers and refugees, is included and valued but often people are not sure how to support. So we’re asking people to help us to help their communities by supporting our 12Ks of Christmas Appeal."

"The funds will be used to remove barriers to participation for many, especially those living in direct provision. To help us provide running tops, running gear, and transport for those who can’t afford them.”

With 40 Sanctuary Runner groups across the country, each year, they bring thousands of people together, including locals, international protection applicants, refugees and other migrants, to run, walk, paddle and/or swim side-by-side.

Their festive Christmas campaign encourages participants to engage in any sort of physical activity such as walking, running or swimming 1km a day for 12-days, or to make a donation or a gift of a donation to Sanctuary Runners' work.