13:30, 16 March 2021
Words by Smiley Team, Staff Writer, London
Inspired by a book about a little boy escaping the Syrian war, 10-year-old Toni Prior braved icy conditions to fundraise by running her first 5km. Thanks to her efforts she raised hundreds of pounds in support of the British Red Cross.
Toni and her family, from Reading, set up a Just Giving page to support the charity’s vital work helping refugees and vulnerable migrants across the UK and around the world.
“I was so inspired by a class book that I read,” Toni explained on her fundraising page. “It was called 'The boy in the back of the class' and it was about a refugee that came from Syria. He lost his sister crossing the seas and couldn't find both of his parents when he arrived in England. Two children tried to help him and be his friend, so I thought if those two children can help a refugee, then so can I.”
After she gave herself the challenge of running 5km, she was set back an injury which meant that she could only train using a bike. So when the big day arrived, she hadn't actually practised running.
Nevertheless, she was determined to meet her target, so she stepped out into the cold weather, completing the 5km run and surpassing her initial fundraising target by over £100.
Her dad, Sam, commented: “We are all so proud of Toni for doing this. It was all her idea and that means a lot as it obviously touched her heart when she learnt how hard life can be as a refugee.
“It was a freezing cold day but that didn’t deter her in the slightest. During the run, we spoke about what the money she has raised can be put toward. Things like blankets, warm clothes, and food. It really spurred her on.
“When we finished, she was even asking me when we could do another sponsored event!”
Toni’s efforts were recognised by none other than Leanne Sinclair, senior community fundraiser at the British Red Cross, who said: “I think what Toni has done is amazing. Few people - let alone a 10-year-old - would have decided to take on the challenge while recovering from an injury. When I told my colleagues about Toni, they were so impressed. Many have donated their own money to her Just Giving page.”
For 150 years, the British Red Cross has helped refugees and migrants adjust to life in their host country, as well as supporting people facing humanitarian disasters around the world.
To support their work visit Toni’s Just Giving page or donate directly to the charity.
