YMCA Mendip & South Somerset held a Sleep Easy event on Saturday 16th March in Frome; and called on its community to come together for just one night.
This event was to raise awareness and much needed funds, which will contribute considerably to the support YMCA Mendip & South Somerset provides vulnerable local young people.
Sponsorship is still coming in, but over £1,500 has been raised so far. The funds raised will be used to offer the provision of a warm, safe place to stay and resources required to enable people to start to rebuild their life.
Taking part in the event was Frome Times staff member Sam Allwood and her partner Nick Jackson. “It was an unforgettable experience and not just due to the terrible weather! I highly recommend for people to take part next year who are wanting to actively fundraise for the homeless in their local community,” said Sam.
A charity spokesperson said, “One night! That’s all! However cold, wet and windy it was; it was, in the end, a choice. Participants may not have slept easy, but the decision was made in the knowledge that it would be all over within hours!
“Not everyone within our community has a choice about where they sleep. Being homeless is very rarely a choice; nor is it always self-inflicted, or drug/alcohol induced. Misconceptions behind the reasons of homelessness and the issues that affect not only an individual, but the community in which they live, needs to be addressed.
“YMCA Mendip & South Somerset would like to thank everyone involved. Not just the participants sleeping outside, but to their sponsors and the following local business who showed their support. Homebase (Frome), Active Fire & Security; Frome Traditional Fish & Chips and Mulberry (Chilcompton).
“The ultimate aim is to create supportive, inclusive and energising communities, where young people can truly belong, contribute and thrive.”
If you are interested in taking part in next year’s YMCA Mendip & South Somerset’s Sleep Easy event or wish to make any donation towards the work that they do, find out more by visiting www.mendipymca.org.uk or by contacting their Fundraising Department on 01749 679553 or fundraising@mendipymca .org.uk
