Run Reigate 2025 – Running Together, Raising Together
On Sunday 21st September, the wait was finally over – Run Reigate 2025 had arrived!
Two years ago, Volodymyr and his family arrived in Reigate from the Ukraine with very little, seeking safety and a fresh start. When they first reached the UK, everything was unfamiliar and the smallest comforts mattered more than most of us can imagine.
Through the support of their local sponsor, Volodymyr and his family were able to access support from Stripey Stork at a time when they needed help the most. We were able to provide them with essential items such as clothing, toiletries and bedding, giving them the basic comforts that are often taken for granted but can make an enormous difference for families starting over in a new country. These vital provisions helped the family settle in during those first uncertain weeks, offering not just physical support, but a sense of security and welcome as they began to rebuild their lives in Reigate.
Volodymyr remembers this support vividly. “I have never forgotten this kindness and the way it made us feel welcome and safe,” he told us. It’s moments like these that remind us why our work is so important, helping people not just survive, but to also feel cared for and valued during times of upheaval.
Now aged 16, Volodymyr wants to give back. This September, he will take part in Run Reigate, running the 5K race to raise funds for Stripey Stork. But he’s not stopping there. His goal is to take on longer running events over the next year, continuing to fundraise while challenging himself physically.
For us at Stripey Stork, it’s incredibly moving to see someone who has been helped by our charity turn that experience into action to help others. The money Volodymyr raises will directly support families experiencing hardship, giving them the essentials they need to support their children. Every pound raised helps ensure that these families can find warmth and security during their most vulnerable times.
Volodymyr’s story is a beautiful reminder of the ripple effect that compassion can create. Thanks to supporters like him, and thanks to people who donate items to us, we can continue to provide vital help to those who need it most.
If you’d like to support Volodymyr on his journey and help other families start over with hope, you can donate to his Run Reigate fundraising page. Together, we can keep the spirit of giving alive and make sure no family goes without.
On Sunday 21st September Volodymyr took on the Run Reigate 5k aiming to raise £200 for Stripey Stork. Prior to the event he reached out to the wider community via the We Love Reigate Facebook group. Within two days, he had raised over £1,000! He’s been overwhelmed by the generosity and kindness of strangers, something he’d never experienced until moving here:
I just wanted to say that Sunday was truly one of the most unforgettable days of my life. Every runner was amazing, and I had the chance to meet some really great people from Team Stork while running. The atmosphere was incredible, and the support at the finish line is something I’ll never forget.
We really enjoyed meeting Volodymyr and his family and are so grateful for his enthusiasm and support.
On Sunday 21st September, the wait was finally over – Run Reigate 2025 had arrived!
We are delighted to announce two fantastic new additions to our Fundraising Team at Stripey
This year, Stripey Stork has been proud to be the chosen charity for Reigate Heath
Racing past their fundraising target as they cycled over 300km from London to Paris On