Over 100 people show their support for local homelessness charities at Big Sleep Out Fundraising Event
The eagerly anticipated fundraising event for Trinity Winchester took place on Friday 8th May at Winchester Cathedral, and was a huge success.
The evening event was well attended with approximately 150 people enjoying live music from local band the Mighty Hump, and food from Hursley High Class Butchers, and Jimmy Bean’s food van.
Peter North, chairman of Trustees at Trinity Winchester, gave a moving welcoming speech, highlighting that “We cannot begin to imagine the reality of rough sleeping. Tonight is a fun event, aimed at raising money for local charities. We do not have to lie in fear for our safety tonight, as many of the people sleeping rough on the streets of Winchester do.”
Participants arrived throughout the evening and set up their cardboard homes aimed at protecting them from the elements through the night. The Mayor of Winchester Counsellor Eileen Berry attended the event, admiring the cardboard homes created and made a lovely speech encouraging all who slept out.
Boxed Beaus team member Caroline added: “I feel we barely scratched the surface of what it feels like to be homeless and sleep rough. We had weeks to prepare, were watched over night and therefore safe. We had money in our pockets and mobile phones to stay in touch with family. We had food in our bellies and knowledge that this was for one night only. I don’t know how these lost souls brave the days and nights one after the other in all the elements. I know I could not have done a second night in a row.”
Nicki Smith, vice chair of the Trustees, who also participated in the event, said “All at Trinity are so grateful to the people who braved the elements and slept out to support homeless and other vulnerable people. The blustery, wet weather made sleeping virtually impossible and I was grateful to get home, hit the shower and snuggle into bed for a couple of hours. The experience gave me an uncomfortable glimpse into the plight of a homeless person. Thank you to all who took part.”