Sutton Coldfield Chamber committee members are looking to raise funds and awareness for YMCA Sutton Coldfield, by taking part in a nationwide sleep out event.
Chamber president, Phil Arkinstall (pictured), honorary chair Katie Hale, committee members Joanna Drinkwater and Clare Whalley will be taking part in the Sleep Easy event, being hosted across the country, on 26 March.
They will be challenged to spend a night sleeping anywhere rather than their own beds.
Chris Brewerton, head of the Sutton Coldfield Chamber, will also be taking part, choosing to sleep out in his shed for the night in a bid to raise £1,000 for the charity.
He said:
“Having worked closely with Sutton YMCA throughout the past couple of years we’ve seen first hand the amazing work they have done to support young people locally, not least during the pandemic when so many of their services were put under pressure due to lockdown, social distancing and the huge increase in stress on their young carers.
It is a pleasure to help the charity get their message out and support the Sleep Easy event in a few weeks time. Please donate generously through various channels as members of the Sutton business community show their support through sleeping on sofa’s, engaging with events on the night on social media and shining a light on the struggles of homelessness and rough sleeping.”
Steph Patrick, deputy CEO at YMCA Sutton Coldfield said:
“As a year, 2020 was more difficult and heart-breaking than anyone could ever have anticipated, but one overwhelming positive that emerged was the power of community and the difference that can make to people’s lives.
We know from our own experience that without the support offered by YMCA Sutton Coldfield, many more vulnerable young people would be forced to sleep on the streets with less options and less chance of realising their potential.
With this in mind, YMCA Sutton Coldfield is calling on the community to sleep somewhere other than their beds and help raise a record sum of money for this special Sleep Easy event. Please participate, donate and spread the word: one night can make a lifetime of difference.”
Kieran came to YMCA Sutton Coldfield when he was just 18 having spent several months sofa surfing; he was homeless and desperate with nowhere to go. He said:
“I was in a really bad place when I first came to the YMCA. I’m so grateful for all the support that the staff have offered me. It’s a great place to stay and the YMCA have really helped me get back on my feet.”
To support Chris, visit:
https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-portal/fundraiserPage?pageId=1232273&newPage=true
Businesses and individuals can still sign up to take part in the challenge.
Visit https://ymcasc.org.uk/events/sleep-easy/ for more information.
To donate, text SLEEPEASY to 70450 to donate £5 or to give a different amount SLEEPEASY followed by the amount eg SLEEPEASY10 to 70450 donate £10. Texts cost the donation amount plus one standard rate message.
