On Friday, December 1st, hundreds of individuals came together at Millennium Point, defying freezing temperatures to participate in the annual Sleepout, a fundraising event organised by St Basils homelessness charity. The event aimed to raise crucial funds to combat the growing homelessness crisis, intensified by rising rents and the escalating cost of living.
The overwhelming response showcased a united front against homelessness, with participants experiencing a night outdoors to empathise with those young people facing housing insecurity. The generosity of supporters was evident, with Millennium Point graciously providing the venue free of charge, Schumacher Packaging yet again donating 500 cardboard boxes for makeshift shelters, and the West Midlands Fire Brigade brass band filling the air with festive tunes.
The support extended beyond a cardboard roof over their heads, with the charity Langar Aid providing warm, nourishing curries with freshly baked bread to the fundraisers throughout the night. Despite the biting cold, spirits remained high.
Barrie Hodge, Head of Fundraising and Communications at St Basils, expressed gratitude, stating, “The Sleepout embodies solidarity. Each participant, charity partner, and supporter are contributing to our vital work preventing youth homelessness. Each year we support nearly 4000 young people in the Midlands. This event is not just a fundraiser; it’s a powerful statement against the homelessness crisis gripping our communities. The money raised ensures St Basils stays at the heart of those communities as a safety net for those vulnerable young people who need us.”
The event has already raised an impressive £66,000, with additional contributions expected in the coming weeks. Every pound raised goes towards St Basils’ comprehensive efforts to prevent youth homelessness, providing accommodation, education, and support for vulnerable young people.
One Sleepout participant remarked, “Sleeping out tonight is a stark reminder of the struggles many face daily. The rising rents and cost of living crisis make it tougher for vulnerable young people. I bought my home over 20 years ago, I simply couldn’t afford to do that now with the soaring property prices, and the cost of rental properties in the Midlands are so high, I don’t know how young people are expected to live. If you haven’t got family who can support you or you come from care or an abusive home how do you survive? Thank goodness for organisations like St Basils. ‘”
As the Sleepout concludes, the message is clear: it takes a community to end homelessness. St Basils continues to welcome donations to amplify their impact and address the pressing challenges faced by young people in fear of losing their homes. Please donate at https://stbasils.org.uk/donate-2/
