People are being called on to ‘pull together’ and rise to the challenge of tackling homelessness with a massive bus pull fundraiser by Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity. The fundraising event will see teams challenged with pulling one of Manchester’s new, bright yellow buses for a 30 metre course.
Taking place on August 17, it’ll see public transport return for the first time in decades to the iconic vaulted arches of Manchester Central, once a busy central train station for the city. The fun-filled event will raise vital funds for the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity and support those at risk of becoming homeless in the city region.
Teams of five people will race against each, using their brute strength to pull one of two single-deckers, each weighing over 11,200kg (heavier than two adult elephants!) The ultimate winners will be crowned ‘Greater Manchester’s Strongest Team’.
Teams will be allocated a 1-hour slot where they will register, compete, and receive their certificate celebrating their strength. To participate, each team must raise a minimum of £500.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester and Patron of Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity, said: “The strength and unity we continue to see across Greater Manchester is inspirational, and I know we’ll see more of that at Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity’s Bus Pull. If we all pull together, we can show everyone just how strong a stance we have in our mission to end homelessness.
“That is why I am asking you to sign up today, get raising those funds, and get training. I look forward to seeing you at Manchester Central on the day, doing your bit for the community we are all lucky enough to call home.”
Money raised will support organisations across Greater Manchester, providing vital services for people experiencing homelessness – where possible helping to stop homelessness before it becomes a reality. The charity has so far raised £3.1 million since it was launched in 2019 – unlocking more than 70,000 nights of emergency accommodation, 40 grants to organisations experiencing tough times and enabling 12 years of frontline work through funding.
Fran Darlington-Pollock, Head of Strategic Development at Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity, explains why it is so important for teams to sign-up: “We’ve already had such great interest in this event, but we want even more businesses, clubs and teams to sign up. You might be crowned Greater Manchester’s Strongest Team, but you will all be champions for us!
“As well as being a super fun challenge, it’ll also be really symbolic with people pulling together to change lives. Every £500 raises could fund as many as 16 nights of accommodation in the unrivalled A Bed Every Night scheme, it could enable organisations to employ critical support workers, or simply keep their doors open.
“This is a unique way to support your local community and not something to be missed.”
Businesses, community organisations and individuals are encouraged to register a team of five here. Further details about the event are here.