The Cáritas half-marathon to raise funds for migrant groups saw 3,000 runners turn out in the city of San Luis Potosí on Sunday.

The aim of the race was to “[combine] sport with solidarity and support those who have less,” explained Enrique Galindo Ceballos, president of San Luis Potosí council. 

The race was organized in association with both the migrant charity Casa del Migrante (Migrant House) and the office of the Archbishop of San Luis Potosí.

The runners were joined by families and children, who all entered the race to show their support for charitable causes, passing 21 churches in 21 kilometers.  

Archbishop Jose Alberto Cavazos noted that charity would help to “do good for the city” and that the event would help to bring residents together.

The Cáritas half marathon will become an annual event, to promote the health of the city, and help those in need, according to Ceballos.

Those staying in the Casa del Migrante accommodation in San Luis Potosí have been in need of basic supplies for some time, including clothing, food, shoes and personal hygiene items.

San Luis Potosí is a key waypoint on the journey to the border with the United States, and for many migrants marks the last major city before they leave Mexico. 

With reports from El Universal and La Realidad de San Luis