Over one hundred and thirty people spent the night outdoors in Bournemouth to support YMCA’s Big Sleep Easy and raise funds to tackle homelessness.
The event took place on Saturday 18 October in the grounds of Diverse Abilities, where participants built makeshift shelters from cardboard and tarpaulins before settling in for a long, damp night under the stars.
Teams, individuals, and local organisations came together to experience, for one night, what life is like for those forced to sleep rough. As temperatures dropped and light rain fell, the group gathered around an open fire to reflect and share stories about why they took part.
At dawn, the temporary shelters were dismantled and recycled, symbolising the reality faced by people who must pack up each morning.
More than one thousand donors supported the event, helping to raise vital funds for YMCA Bournemouth’s 114 units of short-term accommodation. The money will provide safe housing and one-to-one guidance to help residents rebuild their confidence and move forward.
YMCA Bournemouth Chief Executive Gareth Sherwood said it was a humbling reminder of what can be achieved when people come together to help others. He thanked everyone who took part and the local businesses that continue to support the charity’s work across the community.
Help YMCA reach their target by donating here.
Share us with your friends on social media, and have a listen to Bournemouth One online and on DAB for all your local news, traffic, jobs, weather, coastal info and more.
Register below for free regular updates via email.