In 2009, seven Perth cyclists pedalled from Perth to Albany, a distance of over 500 kilometres, raising awareness and funds for Cancer Council Western Australia. Since then the ride has become an annual fundraising event organised by Perth radio station 98five but something is different this year.
I took a trip in December last year to Bangladesh and India to see the excellent work being done through SIMaid’s Girls off the Streets. I was so amazed at the work that is being done to bring hope and healing to young women who have been rescued from sex trafficking that I wanted to broaden the scope of the annual ride. That’s why this year participants have the choice of continuing to support the very worthwhile work of Cancer Council WA or to free women from a past of sexual slavery through SIMaid’s work.
What I saw on my trip was young women, some very young, who had been sexually exploited and sold into prostitution but who are now growing in confidence as they learn to trust again and develop life skills that will give them a strong foundation for life ahead. Girls off the Streets is giving them a future and importantly, letting them know that they are truly loved.
Back in the saddle
This October I’ll once again be taking part in the Morning Cafe Ride for Hope. The ride will involve more than 20 cyclists riding over 500 kilometres from Albany to Perth. As part of the event I’m raising money for SIMaid’s Girls off the Streets. My fund raising target is $1500. To reach that goal I need 15 people who are prepared to donate $100. Can you please consider being one of those people?
Of course I understand that not everyone can afford to be so generous so please consider giving whatever you can. The need is desperate and any donation of $2 or more is tax deductible in Australia. (Donations are still welcome from anywhere in the world.)
If you’d like to make a difference in the lives of young girls who desperately need your support, simply visit our fundraising page and choose my name from the drop down menu as the rider you’d like to support.
Let me thank you in anticipation of your support for this vital program.
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How could I get to join a ride like that?
Hey Keith, you’d have to talk to the organiser.
Hang on …. that’s me. Let’s talk. 🙂