YMCA Trinity Group’s ‘Sleep Easy’ event raises over £13,000 for young, homeless people
Local people helped to raise over £13,000 for YMCA Trinity Group at its annual ‘Sleep Easy’ event which took place on Friday 9th March 2018.
This year 24 people took part, sleeping out in the grounds of St Catharine’s College Sports Ground in Cambridge to raise funds and awareness of the hardship which young, homeless people endure.
Jonathan Martin, YMCA Trinity Group Chief Executive, said: “The recent bad weather highlighted 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.
“Our ambition for the event, alongside the much needed fundraising, was to ensure that all participants came to fully understand the difficulties homeless people suffer. By raising this awareness we hope that everyone who took part will appreciate the support we can offer and how every contribution can make a significant difference to people.”
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. 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.
Nicholas Bewes, Chief Executive of property investor and developer Howard Group, took part in the Sleep Easy event along with a group of colleagues for the second year running. He said: “We have been delighted to support YMCA in raising both awareness and funds for such a valuable cause. We are simply overwhelmed by the generous support of so many and thrilled to have raised over £8,000 including gift aid, well ahead of our target. We know that these funds will be put to excellent use by YMCA as they continue to do such vital work amongst our community, helping young people to re-build their lives. I’d like to thank the entire Howard Group team, and those who sponsored us, for their contribution to this worthwhile cause.”
Sleep Easy is open to participants of all ages and this event saw the youngest so far take part.
Rachel Rason, Girton Youth Project Manager at YMCA Trinity Group said: “My partner and I took part with his children aged six and four. It rained for most of the night but the boys were determined to stay outside!
“Despite the rain 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 not only for the two brave little ones, who have already asked to take part again next year, but also for myself and my partner.
“I hope the money raised makes as much positive impact on homelessness as the event has made on my family.”
YMCA Trinity Group is a part of a federation of 113 independent YMCAs, forming the oldest and largest youth charity in the world.
