Nursing student and mum Emma to run London Marathon for homelessness charity Shelter
A student nurse is ready to race in the capital as she takes on this year’s London Marathon in aid of a homelessness charity.
Mum-of-two Emma White, in her third year of studying a Bachelor of Nursing with Honours at the University of Chester, is aiming to raise thousands of pounds for Shelter to support families in need.
Having only taken up running in April 2024, Emma last year challenged herself to run a race every month, raising money for good causes such as the Multiple Sclerosis Society and the Hospice of the Good Shepherd.
Now Emma, from Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, says she is prepared to take on her biggest challenge yet, joining tens of thousands of other runners along 26.2 miles through the capital in the TCS London Marathon on Sunday, April 26.
Emma said: “As a student nurse and a mum, I see how vital stability and safe housing are for health and wellbeing, which is why this cause truly resonates with me. I have pledged to raise £2,250 for Shelter, and every donation, share, and word of encouragement will mean the world to me.
“Thank you so much for your support as I take on 26.2 miles – for Shelter, for families in need, and to show my daughters that with determination and heart, anything is possible.”
Writing on her funding page, Emma said: “I am proud to be a council estate girl, who grew up in the social housing system and so I know only too well how important a charity like Shelter is and how important the work they do is for families just like mine.
“I know how lucky I am to be able to tuck my girls into their beds at night, safe and sound. So many do not have that privilege. Statistics show that full-time workers who live in rented accommodation are potentially just one pay day away from homelessness.
“The London Marathon is a huge challenge but so is the fight against the housing emergency. A home means everything to me so I'm joining the fight for home by fundraising for Shelter.”
Mike Bellis, Head of Nursing and Healthcare, said: “The Division of Nursing and Healthcare at Chester are proud to support Emma in this worthwhile event, and wish Emma the very best in her challenge to complete the London Marathon, and raise much-needed support for this worthwhile charity.”
People can donate to Emma’s fundraiser at: https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/emma-white.
Image: Emma White, pictured at the Conwy Half Marathon, will be running this year’s London Marathon.