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Battling chills, strong wind and rain, more than 120 people took up the challenge of sleeping rough for a night on the top floors of a car park – and have raised more than £30,000 for charity in the process.
And Sanctuary Trust – organisers of the annual Sleep Out fundraiser to raise fund to support homeless people in Jersey – say donations are still coming in.
The oldest participant in The Sanctuary Trust's Sleep Out was 75 years old, while the youngest was just six.
Participants ranged from members of the homelessness charity to the Youth Service and even Housing Minister Sam Mézec.
Tim Ringsdore, Chair of Sanctuary Trust, said it was "so good to see such a diverse amount of people supporting the Sanctuary Trust annual Sleep Out" and thanked everyone involved for making it such a "memorable evening".
"This was not just about raising money but also to raise awareness of what it would be like to be homeless just for one night, given how cold it was everyone appreciated the hardship this can cause," he added.
Pictured: The youngest person to take part in the Sleep Out was six years old. (Dave Crocker)
All money raised will go towards the charity's running costs which provides a diverse range of support to up to 30 residents.
"I’d like to pay tribute to all our team for organising the event and their continued commitment and professionalism in everything they do for the island,” Mr Ringsdore said.
A soup kitchen, provided by Highlands College and Fungi Delecti, also took place and Vini Jones from the Grace Trust played acoustic music especially for the occasion.
Sarah Tumelty, Sanctuary Trust’s General Manager, added: “The atmosphere on Friday night was special. Despite the cold and windy weather, so many people came together in solidarity, which was inspiring to see.
"For those who participated, returning to a warm bed in the morning was a certainty and that stark contrast is what makes this fundraiser so impactful. It makes you stop and reflect on how challenging life would be without that option.
The charity say any donations of the following amounts can support Sanctuary Trust residents in various ways:
£10: Provides 5 nutritious meals to someone experiencing homelessness
£15: Covers a welcome pack with essentials like soap, a toothbrush, deodorant, socks, and a notebook
£25: Funds a professional haircut, boosting a resident's confidence as they prepare for job interviews.
£50: Supports weekly activities that build skills and community
£70: Provides an emergency night in a hotel for someone in urgent need when the charity's rooms are full
£100: Helps someone obtain a passport, which is needed for housing applications, job opportunities, and financial support
Anyone wishing to make a donation can donate through the charity’s Sleep Out 2024 JustGiving page which remains open.
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