Dear Editor,
My name is Scott Harmon from Wilmington, MA. I’m 56 years old and thrilled to have been chosen to represent Rosie’s Place in the 2018 Boston Marathon. I never considered myself much of a runner, but over the last 10 years, I’ve improved both speed and distance. I ran the Baystate Half Marathon in 2011 for my 50th birthday, then hoped for a chance to run the Boston Marathon. I would never be able to qualify as a racer but knew that running for a charity was a possibility.
So this whole story actually starts with my wife Angelica. She has a big heart, which is how she swept me off my feet five years ago. Here is her story, and why Rosie’s Place was our only choice.
In Angelica’s own words: Many years ago, after fleeing an abusive ex-husband, I relocated myself and my 2 daughters to a new state and town. I was blessed to find a job quickly, but struggled to rent an apartment without someone to cosign the lease. A couple that worked as property managers at an apartment complex in town were gracious and compassionate enough to forego the cosigner requirement and allowed us to rent an apartment. But every month when the rent was due, I had an overwhelming fear that I would not be able to pay the rent and find ourselves homeless. I am forever grateful for the kindness shown to us so many years ago. In retrospect, I realize that extended period of financial stress for me and my daughters is insignificant in comparison to the realities experienced by the women served by Rosie’s Place. But because of that experience, homelessness became a very personal cause for me.
Angelica and I are now fortunate enough to pay it forward, and pray that you will join us. Rosie’s Place works hard to combat homelessness and hunger, and creates opportunities for women in crisis in Boston. Between the two of us, Angelica and I have raised five daughters. We love them all. Every year Rosie’s Place serves about 12,000 women. All are daughters, and we care about them. The need is great, especially in the extreme cold experienced so far this winter.
From the beginning of my training plan until I reach the finish line on April 16th, God willing, I will run approximately 420 miles in 73 hours, burning 63,000 calories, and taking nearly 500,000 steps. Please join me in taking steps to generously help Rosie’s Place provide resources to the women of Boston who need it most. Don’t wait. Donate HERE today!
About Rosie’s Place
Rosie’s Place was founded in 1974 as the first women’s shelter in the United States. Our mission is to provide a safe and nurturing environment to help poor and homeless women maintain their dignity, seek opportunity and find security in their lives. Today, Rosie’s Place not only provides meals and shelter but also creates answers for 12,000 women a year through wide-ranging support, housing and education services. Rosie’s Place relies solely on the generous support of individuals, foundations and corporations and does not accept any city, state or federal funding.
Sincerely,
Scott Harmon
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