A Stratford teen ran 24 miles in 24 hours to raise money for Central Connecticut Coast YMCA to benefit their COVID-19 relief fund.

Ryann Wiltsie, 17, of Stratford, ran around the Lordship section of Stratford, and raised more than $1,300 along the way.

She recruited friends to ride bicycles along side her as she ran.

She says her initial goal was to raise $200.

Wiltsie's mom is the annual campaign director at the Central Connecticut Coast YMCA, and she knows just how important the non-profit's work is.

"We need to show that we're giving back as well for everyone else that's still working as hard. Even though we're home, we can still do something to help other people," Wiltsie says. 

YMCAs across the state have had to close their doors because of the coronavirus pandemic, but they are sheltering the homeless, providing child care for health care workers, and helping kids with online learning.

Wiltsie attends Stratford High as a junior and is a competitive track runner.

Central Connecticut Coast YMCA serves YMCAs in Fairfield, Bridgeport, Stratford, Trumbull and more.

The Central Connecticut Coast YMCA's COVID-19 relief fund is now at more than $60,000.