Red Cross launches The Human Race

THIS MONTH marks the beginning of The Human Race, Australian Red Cross’ newest virtual venture that encourages participants to roll, walk, swim or dance 26km to represent the resilience and wellbeing of all 26 million people in Australia.

Open to people of all ages and abilities as individuals or as teams, the event will fundraise to support the Red Cross in delivering vital humanitarian services to those affected by extreme weather events, emergencies, conflict and isolation around Australia.

Australian Red Cross chief of staff Penny Harrison said the campaign was a fantastic way for Australians to support those that are presently experiencing crisis in their own backyard.

“The Human Race represents our commitment to supporting the overall resilience and well-being of Australians,” Harrison said.

“In times of crisis, our focus is ensuring those affected are provided with the access to relevant connections and support services.

“From our Connected Women program, which helps migrant women overcome isolation and feel safe as they build a life in a new country, to our Community Visitors Scheme, which helps older people stay connected and independent, everyone who takes part in The Human Race… [supports] people experiencing vulnerability across the country.”

Geelong’s Kate Alexander is currently working for the Community Visitation Scheme and said she admired the work of the Red Cross, which sparked her to participate in The Human Race.

“I am also an emergency services worker, and was working throughout the floods that affected Victoria last year,” she said.

“It was amazing to see how many people were assisted throughout the crisis by the Red Cross – from providing food, clothing and shelter, to vital medication and sanitary products to maintain the people of Victoria’s dignity in times of crisis.

“There was much more that the Red Cross were responsible for than I had known previously, so when the opportunity came up to raise some funds, I decided to take it.”

Mrs Alexander has already exceeded her goal of $500 and is hopeful of doubling it by end of March.

So far, the overall appeal has helped to raise more than $65,000, with more than 9,000km already travelled to make sure no one experiences crisis alone.

Participants are encouraged to share their experiences of completing The Human Race on their social channels.

Those who reach their fundraising milestones will go into the draw to win several major prizes, with winners to be announced on May 11.

For more information and to get involved in the cause, head to https://act.redcross.org.au/event/the-human-race/