From Cooking Meals to Running Miles

We are delighted to announce that Joe, our passionate and dedicated Head Chef at Age UK Hythe, Lyminge and Ashford (HLA), will be running the Folkestone Half Marathon on Sunday 28th September to raise vital funds for our charity and the older people we support.

Joe joined Age UK HLA earlier this year, and in a short space of time he has already made a huge impact. With a heart for community service and a talent for crafting delicious, nutritious meals, he leads our kitchen operations — fuelling not only the bellies but also the spirits of the older people who rely on our services.

Now, Joe is stepping out of the kitchen and onto the streets, taking on a 13.1-mile challenge in support of our mission to ensure that no one in later life feels forgotten, lonely or unsupported.

Why Joe is Running

Through his work, Joe sees every day how important our community meals services are to older people across Hythe, Lyminge, Ashford and surrounding rural areas. Many of those we support are living with dementia, struggling to remain independent, or facing the challenges of isolation. Joe’s run is about more than just the miles — it’s about standing alongside those who need us most.

“Joe is a fantastic example of how one person’s passion and drive can ripple outward and make a real difference,” says our CEO. “We are so lucky to have him, both in the kitchen and now on the fundraising team.”

Where the Money Will Go

Every donation to Joe’s fundraising campaign will directly support Age UK HLA’s services:

Meals on Wheels – delivering hot, nutritious meals to housebound older people, with a friendly welfare check at every visit.

Dementia Support – expanding our services for people living with dementia, while offering vital respite for families and carers.

Day Services & Activities – funding staff and transport for our day centres, where older adults enjoy social activities, hot lunches, exercise, and companionship.

Independent Living Support – helping people stay safely in their own homes with shopping, domestic help, and personalised guidance.

How You Can Help

You can be part of Joe’s journey by:

• Donating: Every pound brings us closer to a stronger safety net for older people.
• Sharing Joe’s story: Spread the word on social media and within your networks.
• Cheering him on: Join us on the day of the run or send Joe a message of support.

Donate now and help Joe cross the finish line — for himself, and for the hundreds of older people who rely on Age UK HLA every day.

🔗 https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/runwithjoe

Together, let’s rally behind Joe and show him how much we believe in his mission. With every step he takes, he’s helping to ensure that older people in our community feel supported, valued, and never alone.