More than 600 people from across London, ranging from toddlers to senior citizens, participated in Neasden Temple’s Annual Charity Challenge over the weekend to raise funds for noble community projects.
The Annual Challenge raises funds for the Temple’s diverse educational, community, and spiritual activities in London, benefiting children, youths, families, and the elderly. This year, the Annual Challenge will also be supporting the Felix Project in their fight against hunger and food waste in the capital. The Felix Project collects fresh, nutritious food and delivers it to charities and schools to provide healthy meals for the most vulnerable, including the homeless. Over the past few years, they have collaborated with Neasden Temple on various initiatives, jointly serving and supporting communities across London.
The event kicked off from BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London – popularly known as Neasden Temple. After the opening ceremony, walkers, joggers and runners moved to the Gibbons Recreation Ground (opposite the Mandir) to complete their 10 kilometres of the Challenge. Young children completed a number of circuits of their own around the perimeter of the Mandir while participating in various entertaining activities en route.
Sallinder Rai, Community Events & Fundraising Manager of the Felix Project, said: “I was truly honoured to be invited to open the BAPS Annual Charity 10K and witness hundreds of community members coming together to raise funds for The Felix Project. Thank you for choosing to support our work across London and I look forward to our continued working together in making a difference to so many Londoners and families currently struggling.”
Plenty of refreshments were provided along the way to keep walkers, joggers and runners hydrated and energised, while after the Challenge, there were games organised for the whole family. The enjoyable, healthy day out with friends and family made a real, lasting impact by promoting active lifestyles and supporting the work of local charities and good causes.
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Jay C. Patel, lead volunteer for the Charity Challenge in London, said: “His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj inspires us to support others, particularly during a cost-of-living crisis that continues to impact so many. We know this is a very difficult time for many charities and we are grateful to be able to support the brilliant work of The Felix Project once again.
“It was also wonderful to see the dedication and commitment of young as well as the old during the summer period, when many ordinarily would be on holiday.”
Maitri Amin, a participant in the Annual Challenge, shared her experience of walking with her young daughter for the first time: “I’ve participated in the Annual Charity Challenge previously, but this was the first time I participated with my daughter. It was a wonderful opportunity to both join in and teach her the importance of charity,” she said.
*Info: Neasden Temple; The Felix Project
