Running for freedom
Hundreds of runners stepped out to secure freedom for those who are trapped in slavery.
More than 300 people took to the streets of South Tampa, Florida, to raise awareness and vital funds to tackle the issue of human trafficking.
They were part of Team FREEDOM – a collaboration between Hope for Justice and Florida-based Christian radio station TheJOYFM – the largest team to enter the annual Gasparilla Distance Classic event.
This year, more than 30,000 people signed up to take part, with many raising money for charities and good causes.
Participants chose their own distance, with routes varying between 5k and 50k, and collected sponsorship. We are so thankful for every person who took part, helping to raise a huge $201,427 for Hope for Justice.
David Lord, our US Partnerships Manager, and Tim Nelson, International Development Director, signed up for the 8k. They are pictured here at the finish line!
“It was awesome to be out on the course, to see other members of Team FREEDOM and to encourage one another”, David said.
“It was also really cool to hear the man at the finish line celebrate over the loud speakers, ‘Another Team FREEDOM runner crosses the line!’. We were by far the biggest team at the event. The members did an incredible job and managed to raise more than $200,000 for Hope for Justice to end human trafficking.”
The race was held along the Bayshore Boulevard in South Tampa, on February 23-24.
Team FREEDOM was first established seven years ago by Hope for Justice co-founder and top recording artist Natalie Grant and TheJOYFM radio presenter Carmen Brown.
Our fundraising page is still open if you are able to support us!
