From homelessness to helping others: Reece's 30-mile Thales Trek for SSAFA

21 July 2025

Reece Stirling, 24, a veteran and former client of SSAFA, who struggled with homelessness after serving as a recovery mechanic with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME), has inspired dozens of colleagues at his job with Thales Engineering in Belfast to take part in a high-energy charity challenge in support of SSAFA.

Reece, a trainee engineer, was supported by SSAFA Northern Ireland after finding himself homeless and struggling with multiple challenges following his discharge from the army. Working alongside partner organisations including Haig Housing, SSAFA helped Reece, who is engaged with a three-month-old son, and his family get back on their feet. 

Determined to give something back, Reece approached his employer, Thales, to propose a fundraising challenge – the Thales Trek for Troops – in aid of SSAFA Northern Ireland. Thanks to his drive and determination, more than 40 colleagues signed up to take part.

The event, a 30-mile hike over countryside and coastline in North Down, has already raised an impressive £3,000 with the final total expected to exceed £4,000. 

The trek was met with support from the local community as well as colleagues across Thales, and plans are already under way for a follow-up event in 2026. 

Reece commented: “I’ve had so much help from SSAFA that I really wanted to give back. I felt so passionate about this that I managed to persuade my colleagues at Thales Engineering that this was an amazing cause to give to. I want to volunteer for SSAFA in the future to support someone in the way that I was.”

Alana Colenso, Strategic HR Business Partner at Thales said: "We're pleased to support SSAFA and proud of the efforts made by Reece and his colleagues in raising funds for such an important cause. It's great to see staff getting behind initiatives that make a genuine difference."

Michael Clements, Divisional Secretary for SSAFA Co Down South, (Northern Ireland) said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Reece and all those at Thales who stepped up to support SSAFA in such a meaningful way. It’s a powerful example of what can be achieved when people come together to give back.”