As the cost-of-living crisis bites and house & rent prices soar, many kind-hearted folks came together with the one goal in mind, to support young people and keep them off the streets.
Millennium Point once again played host to the St Basils Homelessness Sleepout where over 400 people from schools, businesses as well as individuals raised much needed funds by sleeping outside in cardboard boxes.
The generous group of fundraises were entertained during the night by The Band of the West Midlands Fire Service who took the edge off the chilly night with their wonderful Christmas tunes and the amazing charity Langar Aid once again kept everyone well fed and hydrated with their homemade food and hot drinks. The annual event has amazingly raised over £62,000 and the funds are still coming in.
Barrie Hodge, head of fundraising said: “It’s been tough for fundraising events with covid and now the cost-of-living crisis, we understand everyone is struggling and something must give. So, we were overwhelmed when so many people signed up to take part in The BIG Sleepout. It just shows the generous spirit of the West Midlander’s is still very much alive and people really want to make a difference where they can.
“St Basils has been working to fight youth homelessness for 50 years now and this event shows local people and businesses recognise our great work and want to support our vital services.” This fundraising event is just one of many the charity holds each year in order to carry out their vital work of ensuring young people don’t end up entering the cycle of homelessness and have a stable and bright future.
