Zach Vella: From London to Malta, One Step at a Time for the Homeless

Imagine pounding the pavement for 1,500 miles, your feet blistered, muscles aching, yet your spirit unbroken. This was the reality for Zach Vella, who, in a feat of endurance and compassion, ran from London to his hometown of Malta, raising awareness and funds for the homeless.

An Epic Journey Begins

Zach’s journey started on a chilly January morning in London. With a backpack filled with essentials and a heart full of determination, he set off, averaging an astonishing 30 miles a day. His route took him through France, Switzerland, Italy, and finally, across the Mediterranean to Malta. It was a journey that would test his physical limits and push his mental resolve.

“I’ve always been passionate about running and helping those in need,” Zach told Hot Malta. “So, I thought, why not combine the two and make a real difference?”

Malta’s Support Along the Way

Zach’s journey captured the hearts of many back home. From the bustling streets of Valletta to the quiet lanes of Rabat, Maltese people followed his progress, cheering him on and offering their support. Local businesses chipped in, too, donating funds and providing Zach with much-needed supplies.

One such business was Café Society in Sliema. “We were inspired by Zach’s cause and wanted to do our part,” said owner, Mario Debono. “We provided him with energy bars and drinks to keep him going. It was the least we could do.”

A Cause Close to Home

Zach’s run was more than just a personal challenge; it was a call to action for a cause close to home. According to Malta’s Housing Authority, there are over 1,000 people currently homeless on the islands. Zach wanted to raise awareness and funds for local charities working to tackle this issue.

“Homelessness is a reality that many of us prefer to ignore,” Zach said. “But it’s there, on our streets, in our communities. I wanted to shine a light on it and show that we can all do something to help.”

By the time Zach reached the finish line at the iconic Mnajdra Temples in Qrendi, he had raised over €10,000 for St. Martin’s Home and Dar Merħba Biss, two local charities working with the homeless. His epic journey had not only pushed his personal boundaries but had also made a tangible difference to those in need.

“I’m not just proud of the distance I’ve run,” Zach said, “but also of the awareness we’ve raised and the funds we’ve collected. That’s what makes this journey truly meaningful.”