IT WAS both a night with the stars and under the stars – and it raised thousands for charity.
Earlier this month, Reading-based homelessness charity Launchpad held its annual Big Sleep Out.
Participants brought sleeping bags and settled down for a kip in the Reading Abbey Ruins.
Before they did so, they enjoyed an evening of fun at nearby St Laurence’s Church, hosted by Launchpad patrons Matt Allwright and Danyl Johnson – and included live music from local rock band Third Lung; a prize raffle; a hot meal from Chef Roots; and talks from Launchpad staff and clients, and the Mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden.
It was a cold night, with temperatures dropping to 4°C, giving the 30 participants a chance to experience some of the conditions that rough sleepers face.
This is the event’s 17th year, and the first inperson event for three years, due to covid.
And it raised an impressive £18,000, despite just a quarter of the usual numbers taking part.
Organisers admit they were hoping for 150 participants and set a fundraising target of £40,000 to support itsl services for the increasing number of people who will be at risk of losing their home, as the cost of living continues to rise over the coming months.
Vicki Lewis, Fundraising Manager at Launchpad, said, “There were fewer people taking part in this year’s Big Sleep Out than ever before – which we think is down to the rising cost of living and after-effects of the pandemic.
“People are likely to be reluctant to ask their friends, colleagues and family for donations during such difficult times, and many of the local businesses who have taken part in the Big Sleep Out in the past are still working from home – so engaging with them has remained a challenge for us.
“But we are still thrilled the event raised over £18,000 – it’s an incredible result, especially given the number of people who slept out. We can’t thank our brave participants enough for their support and dedication – it was a cold, damp night.”
She added: “Because of them, many people in Reading who will face housing crisis because they can’t make ends meet, can receive the urgent help they need from Launchpad.
“Our services are a lifeline to over 1,100 local people every year, and over the next few months we know there are going to many more people who find themselves on the brink of homelessness and in desperate need of our support.”
Ms Lewis also wanted to thank sponsors including Stantec/Barton Wilmore and Active Workplace Solutions, as well as Danyl and Matt for hosting the evening, Third Lung for performing, Chef Roots for the food and Anonymous Coffee for serving all participants warm drinks at 5.30am.
The charity welcomes additional donations, in a bid to reach its £40,000 target.
For more details, log on to: launchpadreading.org.uk/donate
