YMCA Bournemouth has launched its biggest annual fundraiser.
BIG Sleep Easy takes place on Saturday October 12.
Colleagues, friends and teams from local businesses sleep outside in shelters they’ve built themselves.
Speaking at last night’s launch, held at Barchester’s Parley Place care home in West Parley, YMCA Bournemouth’s Events Manager Sheena Dayman, pictured, urged people to take part.
She told Bournemouth One: “We would really like for you to get involved with us.
“It doesn’t matter whether you’re a business, a community group or whoever you are.
“Come along, sleep outside in a cardboard box on the 12th of October.
“Sleep under the stars, raise lots of money, support the YMCA and help us make a real change in people’s lives.”
Money raised will go towards YMCA Bournemouth’s work to support vulnerable people across Dorset.
To date, BIG Sleep Easy Bournemouth has raised over £130,000 to support homeless individuals in the local area and beyond.
Alongside raising vital funds, the event aims to raise awareness and a greater understanding of the complexities of homelessness.
Statistics from early 2023 estimated that 1,095 individuals are considered homeless across the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole conurbation.
To find out more or if you wish to take part in the BIG Sleep Easy 2024, contact Sheena at 07824333505 or email sheena.dayman@ymcabournemouth.org.uk.
You can donate to YMCA Bournemouth’s BIG Sleep Easy 2024 at https://justgiving.com/campaign/ymcabbigsleepeasy2024.