BALTIMORE — This weekend, a local running club in Baltimore is stepping up its commitment to support single mothers through an ambitious 134-mile relay race from Baltimore City Hall to Philadelphia City Hall.
The Track Hawks Run Club has joined forces with the Jeremiah Program to generate funds and raise awareness for single mothers who are working toward their college degrees.
The race kicks off at 6 a.m. and is scheduled to complete the challenging journey by 6 a.m. the following day, connecting the two cities over the impressive distance.
“This initiative allows me to stand in solidarity with women I may never personally meet, knowing that my efforts will contribute to their well-being and success,” shared Yasmine Allen.
The Jeremiah Program in Baltimore is currently aiding 54 mothers and nearly 100 children, offering financial assistance to help single mothers achieve their educational ambitions.
Danielle Staton, the executive director of the Jeremiah Program, highlighted the similarities between the relay event and the program’s core mission.
“It’s a perfect metaphor for what we do at the Jeremiah Program. Our mothers are navigating the journey of single parenthood while striving for their degrees, and they don’t have to do it alone. They receive guidance from a coach and support from a thriving community, passing along that baton of opportunity, with their children’s futures waiting at the finish line,” Staton explained.
This event serves a dual purpose as both a fundraiser and an awareness initiative, as organizers aim to collect over $5,000 for the cause.
Demetrius Kingston, a dedicated member of the Track Hawks Run Club, expressed his personal connection to the mission.
“Having a sister who is a single mom and being raised around strong women has instilled in me the importance of prioritizing support for women. When I first heard about this initiative, I immediately knew I wanted to contribute because I see the struggles many women face,” Kingston shared.
Yasmine Allen, likewise with the Track Hawks Run Club, expressed her empathy for the mothers involved, identifying with them as both a single parent and a runner.
“Community support for single mothers is vital because we often find ourselves in vulnerable situations and in need of protection. Whether it takes running 20 miles or 134 miles, we are committed to making this happen,” Allen emphasized.
The Jeremiah Program is set to see five mothers graduate this June, and event organizers hope that activities like this relay will further bolster their academic pursuits.
The run is set to commence on Saturday at 6 a.m. from Baltimore City Hall, with the goal of reaching Philadelphia City Hall by 6 a.m. on Sunday.
Additionally, the Jeremiah Program is hosting another fundraiser, Raising The Stakes, at Blue Pit in Hampden on May 2nd.
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