YMCA Derbyshire is appealing to local community members, businesses and schools to raise funds and awareness to make a lifetime of difference to those living with them.
For twelve hours from 7pm on Friday 24 March, businesses, individuals, and community groups in Derby will be sleeping anywhere but their bed to raise awareness and funds for those facing homelessness.
Sleep Easy 2023 utilises a hybrid approach, giving people the option of camping out in unconventional places around their homes or gardens, or as part of a larger community event. Following two years of pandemic and virtual-only participation, physical community-led events made a welcome return last year.
All monies raised from the evening will go towards delivering much-needed support including therapeutic counselling, diversionary activities and exciting day trips or residents’ trips which many may have never been experienced before.
Gillian Sewell, chief executive of YMCA Derbyshire said:
“Events like Sleep Easy are essential for our organisation, especially during a time of uncertainty and impossible personal challenges. The cost-of-living crisis has hit everyone differently, but our local community is incredible. They adapt and unite to help those most in need.”
“We are calling on our fellow community members to continue this support for our young people who are finding these times quite challenging. Together, we can show them that we care, that we are there for them, and to highlight the overwhelming difference this can make to people’s lives. The efforts, the awareness and the money raised from Sleep Easy events fills our hearts.
“Please join us for Sleep Easy 2023 by participating, contributing, and nominating others and to share the message that “one night can make a lifetime of difference.”
For those unable to attend the evening but still wanting to support, YMCA Derbyshire is offering sponsorship packages, including sponsoring a box for £100 or a wider opportunity to sponsor the whole event. If you’d like more information on this, please email fundraising@ymcaderbyshire.org.uk.
For more information or to register for Sleep Easy 2023, please visit www.ymcaderbyshire.org.uk/sleepeasy2023
