At the start of this year, Benjamin Thomas from Fresh Faced Marketing made a simple promise to himself: walk or run 5K a day for Faith in Families. Just one 5K. Every day. For 30 days.
However, what began as a small personal challenge quickly became something much bigger. Fast forward 353 days, and Ben is still going strong, completing 5K a day for Faith in Families, no matter the weather, the schedule, or the obstacles life threw his way.
Rain, wind, or shine, Ben has shown up every single day. Along the way, he’s completed a half marathon, got married, had a toe operation, and somehow still kept moving forward. It’s a commitment that speaks volumes, not just about fitness, but about community.
“I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who’s joined me on these walks along the way, So many of them turned into conversations and prayers about Faith in Families, and that’s meant a lot. And especially my wife, Nia. She’s been on many a 5K when she knew I needed the company. That support has never gone unnoticed.”
Why 5K a Day for Faith in Families Matters
Before starting the challenge, Ben hadn’t been able to run for six months. So instead of setting a dramatic goal, he chose something achievable and consistent. And that consistency has made all the difference.
So why Faith in Families?
Back in 2024, Ben attended an event where Faith in Families CEO, Cherrie Bija, spoke about the realities facing families across Swansea Bay. She talked honestly about poverty, crisis, and trauma, and about the growing number of children going without essentials most of us take for granted.
That moment stuck.
“I heard Cherrie speak about what families are really facing locally, and it hit hard. This challenge is my way of saying, I see what you’re doing, and I want to help.”
Because of that talk, 5K a day for Faith in Families became more than a personal goal. It became a way to raise awareness, spark conversations, and support children and families who need it most.
Supporting Children, Families, and the Wider Community
Faith in Families supports thousands of people every month across Swansea Bay. Through Community Cwtches, therapeutic services, outreach support, and the Cwtch Mawr Multibank, the charity helps families access food, clothing, hygiene items, school essentials, and safe, welcoming spaces.
The Multibank alone supports over 127 partner organisations, including schools, social workers, women’s aid services, and community groups. Because of this network, one act of generosity goes far beyond one family.
“When people support Faith in Families, they’re helping far more than one household. They’re strengthening a whole community, through schools, charities, and frontline services that rely on Cwtch Mawr every single week.”
Ben’s challenge shines a light on why local charities matter, especially during times when the cost of living continues to rise and families are under increasing pressure.
A Year of Commitment, and a Final Push
With just over 12 days left in the year, Ben is determined to see the challenge through to the very end. To mark the final stretch, he’s launched a fundraising push, inviting businesses and individuals to donate 10p for every day of the year.
That’s just £36.50 for a full year of daily 5Ks, and for real support reaching children and families locally.
“It hasn’t always been easy. But knowing this helps families who are struggling makes every step worth it.”
Alongside the challenge, Ben and his community have also supported Faith in Families through Christmas present gifting at their church, helping ensure children wake up to something special during the festive season.
Why Local Support Makes a Big Difference
Faith in Families exists to make sure no child faces hardship alone. Every donation helps keep food on shelves, therapy sessions running, and doors open in safe spaces where families can breathe, connect, and feel supported.
“Ben’s commitment is incredible, but it’s also a reminder that small actions, done consistently, can change lives. Support like this helps us be there for families at their toughest moments, and that impact reaches far wider than people realise.”
As Ben continues his final days of 5K a day for Faith in Families, his story shows what’s possible when determination meets compassion.
How Can You Help?
Together, small steps really do add up.
