Support Homeless Veterans: Winter Warrior Half Marathon

Homelessness is a reality we see daily, yet it often fades into the background of our routines. It’s not from a lack of empathy; it’s that homelessness has become so common, the shock wears off. Over 35,000 U.S. veterans were homeless in 2023, with half facing mental health challenges like PTSD. It’s hard to fathom how those who served our country end up without support.

As winter approaches, homelessness worsens. People without shelter face bitter cold, with nowhere to find warmth. Most of us feel powerless to change this—but with this fundraiser, I plan to make a difference.

While addressing the root causes of homelessness is essential, I’m focused on supporting a charity that directly helps veterans affected by it: the *Homeless Veterans in America Relief Foundation* [https://www.hviarf.org](https://www.hviarf.org).

I’ll be running the Winter Warrior Half Marathon in Rochester, NY on the 6th January 2025 to raise awareness and funds for this cause [https://yellowjacketracing.com/races/winter-warrior-12-14-relay-marathon-2024](https://yellowjacketracing.com/races/winter-warrior-12-14-relay-marathon-2024).

My goal is a sub-2-hour run in subzero temperatures. I’ve been told it’s ambitious—even risky. But two hours in the cold, with warm hugs and a home at the finish, is nothing compared to an entire winter on the streets. The resilience needed for that is hard to imagine.

This time, I’m determined to reach my goal. I missed the mark by 17 minutes in my last race due to unexpected elevation changes and lack of planning. This course is flat, and despite the freezing temperatures, I’m committed to achieving it—rain, snow, or sunshine.

Please support me in raising awareness and funds to help U.S. veterans who are “MIA—Missing in America.”

Big love!