Six-year-old Eleanor set to cycle ‘furthest she has ever ridden’ to help children at Northampton food bank

A young girl who is ‘very aware’ of homelessness in Northampton has pledged to ride ‘further than she has ever ridden’ to raise much needed funds.

Eleanor Willis, who is the daughter of one of Re:Store food bank's founders, wanted to help in some way when she knew families were struggling during lockdown.

The six-year-old was not confident on her bike at the start of lockdown, but has been working hard and has managed to improve.

With her new found cycling ability, Eleanor wanted to take on a challenge that could raise money for families who rely on Re:Store, so she planned out an eight-mile bike ride that she will complete on Tuesday (September 1).

Anya Willis, Eleanor’s mum and charity director said: “I was pregnant with Eleanor when I helped to set up the charity seven years ago, so it’s something she has always been around and something she has always been aware of.

“She always shows a great interest in homeless people in town and the food bank and regularly asks for updates.

“We have always been open and honest and shown her that her life is privileged as she gets the things she needs when she needs them.

“Then during lockdown we were talking about how hard it must be for families who are struggling and who don’t have access to a garden.

“Eleanor asked what she could do to help.”

Since building up her cycling confidence, Eleanor has managed to ride just over six miles, so will be pushing herself for the challenge.

Although she has said that she is nervous for the lengthy ride, she is also made up about how much money she has already raised.

Anya added: “Eleanor said to me that of everyone she knew donated a pound she could raise about £100, so that’s the target we set.

“But she has built it up and has done really well to get so much support.

“We have already raised more than £700. Her little heart is full of joy."

The money Eleanor raises will help to fund a project that Re:Store is currently running called ‘Growbaby’, which aims to supply clothes and essentials for families with children under the age of five, after many have struggled due to the pandemic and unemployment.

“I’m really proud of her and it’s great that she has so much awareness of life outside our four walls, especially because we have spent so much time in these four walls recently,” Anya continued.

“It’s brilliant that she is understanding and passionate about other people.”

To support Eleanor, visit her Localgiving page.

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