It’s that time of year again where the community comes together to brave cold temperatures to raise funds for the most vulnerable in our area.
The 10th annual ‘Sleep Out so others can Sleep In’ event is being held on January 27.
This staple event by the Hastings & Prince Edward Counties branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association sees participants sleep outside overnight in makeshift shelters in Belleville’s Market Square to raise poverty awareness and funds.
CMHA Executive Director Sandie Sidsworth said they are aiming to raise $10,000 again this year and like always the funds go towards their four transitional homes in Belleville.
Sidsworth estimated that over the past ten years almost $150,000 has been raised ‘thanks to a very generous community.’
The upcoming event runs from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Sidsworth stressed everyone under 18 must be supervised by an adult and added this is a non-alcoholic event. Also everyone is responsible for dismantling and disposing of their shelters. While breakfast isn’t provided she encouraged everyone to try out some of the local restaurants in the downtown core.
For more information or to register visit the CMHA’s Facebook Page their office at 41 Octavia Street in Belleville or call (613) 969-8874.
