Last night, 29 leading entrepreneurs and influential business owners slept outside in solidarity with the hundreds of young people who call Vancouver’s streets home to raise funds for our Outreach Program.
The top fundraiser, Marcus New raised over $33,544.00! The Sleep Out is first and foremost a peer-to-peer fundraising event and you can still donate here. It is also an opportunity for people to get a glimpse into what it is like for homeless youth and stand in solidarity with them
The evening began with the participants learning about neurodevelopment and trauma informed care at Covenant House. A panel consisting of youth and staff shared their knowledge and experience about youth homelessness, outreach and the different ways Covenant House helps young people in the community.
The young people also shared their personal stories and explained how they found their way to Covenant House Vancouver, and how their lives have changed since. One youth shared, “Covenant House is somewhere that’s safe, where there’s community, and where there’s staff to help.” Another stated, “They’ve helped me get better as a person, they’re really supportive and they make me feel better.Q”
The weather overnight was very wet and many sleepers did not get much rest. Most of the participants were off to work where, undoubtedly, they will find it hard to focus and stay awake.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our sleepers and their supporters!
