Sleep Easy Ipswich raises over £5,000 for homeless young people
Local people have helped to raise more than £5,338.26 for YMCA Trinity Group at its annual Sleep Easy event, with this figure continuing to rise.
On Friday 8th March 2019, 38 people took part by sleeping out in the grounds of Ipswich Town Football Club to raise funds and awareness of the hardship which young homeless people endure.
Jonathan Martin, YMCA Trinity Group Chief Executive, said: “The harshness of the winter weather highlights how dangerous and unpleasant sleeping rough is for young homeless people. I’d like to say a big ‘thank you’ to everyone who took part in Sleep Easy and spent the night out with us raising awareness and vital funds for YMCA Trinity Group for our services in Ipswich.
“Our motivation for the event, alongside the much-needed fundraising, was to ensure that all participants came to fully appreciate the difficulties which homeless people suffer. By raising awareness, we hope that everyone who took part will recognise the support we can offer and understand how every contribution can make a significant difference to people in our local community.”
YMCA Trinity Group has operated in the area since 1852 and provides services for over 450 residents a year, including practical help for young people in crisis.
This fundraising event saw participants sleeping on DIY cardboard beds from 7pm to 7am. VIP participants included the Mayor of Ipswich and the Mayor of St Edmundsbury. All participants paid an entry fee of £10 that will contribute to the much-needed funds to help the homeless young people supported by YMCA Trinity Group.
Jane Riley, Mayor of Ipswich commented: “Despite the awful weather all the volunteers worked hard to keep spirits up but without question the evening was difficult and we only had a brief insight into the hardships those who are permanently without homes face.
“It was a great learning experience for all, many of whom are planning to take part again next year. The money raised will make such a positive impact on homelessness and has been an eye-opening experience for all those who participated.”
Amanda Pauling, Accommodation Director for YMCA Trinity Group, attended the Sleep Easy at Ipswich Town Football Club. She added: “We have been delighted by all the local support YMCA has received, including that of Ipswich Town Football Club for providing the venue and also that of the local Greggs, Pizza Hut, Tesco and Rapid Relief for all of their donations of food.
“We are simply overwhelmed by the generous support which has raised both awareness and over £5,000 in funds for such a valuable cause. The donations will make a huge difference to our services in Ipswich.”
YMCA Trinity Group is a part of a federation of 113 independent YMCAs, forming the oldest and largest youth charity in the world.
We would like to say a massive thank you to our sponsors and supports who helped with this event:
