Will You Sleep Out To Raise Money For YMCA To Help Homeless People?

Published on: 25 Feb, 2019
Updated on: 24 Feb, 2019

YMCA Guildford is hosting its annual fundraising Sleep Easy event on Friday, March 22, and is inviting people to take part.

Members of staff from the Guildford office of law firm Penningtons Manches LLP are again doing their bit.

The team from Penningtons at last year’s sleep out in the bandstand at the Castle Grounds, Guildford.

Last year they endured a bitterly cold night sleeping out in Guildford Castle Grounds with just cardboard and sleeping bags to protect them from the elements. They have also raised funds for the YMCA through the London Marathon and other initiatives.

Joshua Holmes from Penningtons said: “Sleep Easy was a lot of fun and is such a worthy cause to sleep outside for, in what was a night of snow and rain. Being in the Castle Grounds at night was a great experience that not many people get the opportunity to do.”

Fellow employee Francesca Falzarano added: “It was a night to remember and one that showed how important it is to help those in need. Sleeping in company and with utilities close by is a luxury many don’t have, but the money we raised to support the YMCA will really make a difference. I am looking forward to taking part this year.”

YMCA Guildford provides safe accommodation and opportunities for young people who have been made, or are at risk of becoming, homeless.

Paul Napthine, head of operations at Guildford YMCA, said: “We’re looking for local companies and individuals to get involved. We would love to hear from anyone interested in taking part.

“It won’t be warm or comfortable, and it’s not a true taste of homelessness, but it’s certainly a thought-provoking experience. I encourage anyone with a concern for the homeless to sign up and raise money to make a difference.”

Last year YMCA Downs Link Group provided a home for more than 900 young people across West Surrey and East and West Sussex who would otherwise have been homeless. Adequate funding is a constant challenge. The Sleep Easy event means that money is available to support these young people beyond the confines of statutory funding.

To find out more and sign up visit www.ymcadlg.org/sleep-easy or email sleep.easy@ymcadlg.org. Donations can be made at bit.ly/SleepEasy19