YMCA Exeter would like to say a big thank you to local residents for supporting the 10th anniversary of Sleep Easy and sleeping rough for one night to support local, homeless young people.
Over £6,000 was raised on the night as participants slept out on DIY cardboard beds, bringing the total to £180,000 raised over a decade of Sleep Easy events.
Despite smaller numbers due to the Coronavirus, 30 people took part in the event on Saturday 14th March, helping to raise awareness of the hundreds of young people who sleep rough every year and raise funds to help YMCA Exeter continue to support residents and young people in their services.
Catherine Hubbard from Nationwide, joined three other team members to participate in Sleep Easy: “After a very chilly night, a lot of rain and the roof on our shelter collapsing in on us, it’s fair to say tonight has been challenging,” says Catherine. “But this was just a tiny glimpse of what some people have to struggle with every single night.”
Si Johns, YMCA Exeter Joint Chief Executive, said: “We’re thrilled about the success of this year’s Sleep Easy event and I’d like to thank everyone who took part and spent the night out with us.
“I’ve taken part in all ten sleep-outs, but this year really felt different. We’re all facing challenges ahead, but for vulnerable young people, sleeping rough on the street, the situation is even more serious.
“It’s so important for us to be able to protect those who are most vulnerable and all the funds raised will go directly to supporting local young people, who need it the most.”
Every year YMCA Exeter provides supported accommodation for over 100 young people coming out of homelessness and needing the support of a loving community to move forward. If you think that YMCA Exeter might be a good option for you, or someone you know, then you can get in touch with us. Find somewhere to live.
