More than 40 people, including the Mayor of Medway, braved the cold weather on Friday 26 January to take part in another successful mhs homes Big Sleep Out in aid of local homelessness charity, Porchlight.
We are delighted to reveal that we have so far raised more than £10,000 for this worthy cause.
Hazel Eddy, Head of Fundraising at Porchlight, commented: “This amazing support couldn’t have come at a more crucial time as Porchlight is currently bracing itself for further funding cuts. The money raised by mhs homes and other organisations from across Kent taking part in this event will help protect our lifesaving services. The commitment, time and fundraising carried out by all those involved have truly made a difference. We’re very grateful.”
Teams from mhs homes, Birketts solicitors, calfordseaden, and more were joined by the Mayor of Medway, Nina Gurung, and councillor Sharon Jackson, who also took part in the Big Sleep Out.
There were some excellent shelters built, and a huge congratulations goes to the winning entry from Moxy Property Consultants, Emma Jones, and her young daughter.
Ashley Hook, chief executive of mhs homes, said: “This event not only raises money for charity, but also raises awareness of the challenges faced by people who have no choice but to sleep out every night. Everyone has the right to a decent home and as a local housing provider we have an important role in helping to end the housing crisis here in Kent.”
Mayor of Medway, Cllr Nina Gurung, added: “Empathy and compassion costs nothing but are both important and priceless. The Big Sleep Out is a salient reminder that homeless people in our communities are in crisis, extremely vulnerable physically, mentally and emotionally. They need our collective support and understanding.”
Leftovers
The remaining food and drink from the Big Sleep Out event was donated to mhs homes’ 2024 Charity of the Year, the Swale Community Care Project.
Charity trustee, Daniel Marsh, said: “A big thank you to mhs homes for thinking of us after the successful sleep out for Porchlight. We are very grateful for the food donations, and have already started distributing them through our food parcels.”
Remember, it’s not too late to donate! Help Porchlight tackle homelessness by donating via our JustGiving page.