FUNDRAISERS are set to enjoy a night under the stars to raise money for the homeless.
Wokingham Borough Council and voluntary sector staff are getting their sleeping bags ready as they sleep out to help out on Thursday, November 24, in support of the Salvation Army.
The council is inviting members of the public to get involved by taking part in the event at Howard Palmer Gardens, donating or spreading the word.
Donations can be made via the Wokingham Salvation Army’s JustGiving page.
Anyone wishing to join the team is invited to sign up in advance to ensure there is enough food and space for everyone attending. Residents who are unable to stay the night can also show their support by popping along in the evening.
Cllr Stephen Conway, executive member for housing, said: “I am delighted that our Wokingham Borough Council colleagues and partners from the voluntary sector are taking part in this sleep out on November 24 to raise awareness of the support available to those in our borough who find themselves homeless. We wish them well as they also help to raise vital funds for the Salvation Army.”
With Howard Palmer Gardens being open to the elements, the team will gain a small insight into homelessness on a cold, autumnal night.
Residents who are homeless or at the risk of becoming homeless within 56 days are asked to make a referral via the Housing Jigsaw website, selecting the option ‘Are you homeless or at risk of being made homeless’.
Once the referral has been received, the duty homelessness prevention officer will get in touch. The council can only accept referrals which are made through Housing Jigsaw.
To take part in the sleep out, contact: Captain Jan Howlin of Wokingham Salvation Army on 079435075564. The Housing Jigsaw website can be found here: live.housingjigsaw.co.uk. Those who are unable to make a referral should contact: 0118 974 6000 (office hours) or 0800 212 111 (outside of office hours).
