Pam’s December Challenge: 100 Miles, One Purpose
Last December, many of you will remember Pam Spychal braving the icy waters of Great Yarmouth with daily winter swims. This year, she has swapped cold seas for cold streets, committing to run three miles every day throughout December, with a stretch target of 100 miles.
Pam’s motivation is simple and powerful: to raise vital funds to help open Faith House, a supported home in partnership with Hope Into Action. Faith House will offer stability, dignity, and hope to people in Great Yarmouth who are facing some of the toughest circumstances imaginable.
At the halfway point of the month, Pam had already completed over 50 miles and smashed 50% of her fundraising target. The momentum is strong—but the finish line still needs support.
Why Faith House Matters
Faith House is the result of a long journey that began during the COVID pandemic, when Pam started volunteering at the local foodbank. While food provision is essential, it quickly became clear that many people needed more than groceries—they needed safe, stable housing.
In Spring 2025, a parish-owned house (dating back to the 1930s) became vacant. The Church Council agreed to enter a partnership with Hope Into Action to transform the property into a supported home. Early estimates were daunting—£30,000 for remaining works—but through volunteer effort, practical skills, and determination, costs were reduced significantly. Even so, substantial funding is still required to meet Hope Into Action’s high standards, including:
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Electrical upgrades (wired smoke and CO₂ alarms, extraction fans, safer appliances)
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Gas works and removal of redundant fittings
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Fire doors, secure windows, and specialist locks
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Landlord scheme compliance, cleaning, decorating, and furnishing
Faith House is expected to become vacant again in Summer 2026, giving time to complete the work properly and sustainably.
Running Through Community
Pam’s daily runs have become more than mileage—they are encounters with community, compassion, and reality.
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Conversations with people sleeping rough in shop doorways, bus stations, and under piers
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Visits to the Foodbank, the Pathway Café, churches, mosques, surgeries, and community projects
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Encouragement from friends, clergy, volunteers, and strangers alike
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Small but meaningful moments: seals in the sea, frosty boardwalks, festive cafés, carol services just missed, and unexpected donations mid-run
Some days were short. Others stretched to five miles or more. One run turned into a personal best. Another took far longer than planned due to friendly interruptions—and a seal sighting.
Each mile tells a story. Each story reinforces why Faith House matters.
Gratitude at the Halfway Point
At just over 53 miles, Pam paused to say thank you to the many people who have already donated, encouraged, and pledged support. Every gift—large or small—moves this project closer to reality. Sponsor forms are still coming in, and generosity continues to build.
Help Pam Reach the Finish Line
Pam is running every day. Faith House is moving steadily from vision to reality. What’s needed now is the final push.
If you are able to donate, share the fundraiser, or offer practical help (including furniture or household items in the future), your support will make a tangible difference.
Donate here:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/2zrr26-100-miles-in-december
Let’s cheer Pam on, complete the 100 miles together, and help ensure that Faith House becomes a place of safety, dignity, and hope for those who need it most.