[imagesource:needpix]

You’re invited to experience the harsh reality of homelessness first-hand.

In order to combat the plight of homelessness, U-Turn launched its ‘Night on the Street’ campaign, encouraging the community to camp outdoors on Saturday 18 May.

With cold winds and icy rains, U-Turn believes that participation in this campaign at this time of year can lend a hand in driving out homelessness, as the elements make it even more difficult to exist on the streets.

“That’s why we’re inviting you to be part of our ‘Night on the Street’ campaign in partnership with BMW Constantia and SMG. Take the bold step and spend one night outdoors together with your family and pets, help raise awareness in your backyard!”

Per News24, the Chief Communications Officer Valerie Govender told People’s Post the campaign has taken off really well with the general public, with schools, churches and businesses engaging with U-Turn to come on board for the virtual event.

“People are fascinated about the idea of experiencing the reality of homelessness for themselves, and that’s one of our objectives for the campaign, to create an awareness of homelessness.”

Lawrence Herbert from BMW Constantia said it’s super important to be aware and attuned to the needs of those less fortunate in the area:

“On a daily basis, we witness the hardships endured by those living on the streets, and it’s easy for this to be seen as the norm amidst the routine of our work lives. We therefore welcomed the opportunity to engage with U-Turn Homeless Ministries and come up with concrete ways to contribute to their efforts at addressing the issue of homelessness in Claremont and the greater city,” shared Herbert.

Staff of U-turn will be sleeping out on the pavement in Claremont together with the CEO Jean-Ray Knighton Fitt.

“Our champions will be there too, advising and sharing their own experiences with participants on the night to help them get through the night. Staff who aren’t physically there will be at various locations sleeping out ‘virtually’.

“We are excited that we have participants in the United Kingdom and Norway too who are supporting and promoting this event,” Govender added with glee.

The fundraising event is reliant on the public’s participation to really help drive out homelessness.

How to participate:

1. Purchase your ticket online via Quicket: https://qkt.io/afpTyu
2. Print out your ticket.
3. “Camp” out on Saturday 18 May between 18:00 – 06:00.
4. Document your experience, photos and videos.
5. Share on your social media with snaps of your family along with a printed ticket and tag U-Turn using the #anightonthestreets hashtag.
   Handles: FB: @Uturnhomelessministries Instagram: @Uturnsa

Apart from the virtual event, donations of blankets and canned food are a key focus of this campaign. BMW Constantia hosts a drop-off point for preloved clothing and other donations that get transferred to U-Turn Charity Shops.

[source:news24]