YMCA Norfolk raise over £8000 for homelessness

The 2024 YMCA Sleep Easy campaign held last weekend helps to raise money for the charity’s work supporting homeless people in Norfolk.

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This year’s event on March 8 saw over 40 people brave the cold and sleep outside in cardboard boxes at the YMCA Community Hub in Norwich and The Beacon Church in King’s Lynn.

Participants joined the Bishop of Thetford and team from the Diocese of Norwich, a team from Ashton Legal, and Karen Vincent, chair of Norfolk County Council.

They were also joined by a group of young people from Lighthouse Church in Sheringham, some of whom were taking part in their fifth Sleep Easy challenge.
 
Paul Dunning, Director of Education at the Diocese of Norwich, said: “Getting a glimpse into what it means to be homeless by sleeping outside under cardboard was a sobering experience. The work the YMCA carries out with young people in Norfolk is vital and I was pleased to be able to help in some small way.”
 
John Lee, Chief Executive of YMCA Norfolk, also spent the night in a cardboard box: “We’re incredibly thankful for every single person who donated to help ensure that we tackle youth homelessness. As a local charity, the support of people in Norfolk is always greatly valued. Together, we can work to ending youth homelessness.”

Every penny raised during the event is directed towards providing essential assistance for young individuals experiencing homelessness daily in Norfolk. Elsie Green, Community Fundraiser at YMCA Norfolk, was overjoyed to see so many people participating in this year’s event.
 
“We’re thrilled to have raised over £7000 so far. The money will support our vital work transforming young lives, offering bed spaces for vulnerable young people, as well as the support they need to rebuild their lives and reach their goals,” said Elsie.


You can still contribute to the campaign at donorbox.org/ymca-norfolk-sleep-easy-2024



images courtesy of YMCA Norfolk feature groups from Ashton Legal, Diocese of Norwich, and Lighthouse Youth.