Interfaith Outreach Kicks off Sleep Out Campaign
Interfaith Outreach’s annual Sleep Out Campaign kicks off on Saturday, Nov. 13.
The event not only raises awareness about suburban homelessness, but it also raises vital funds. The nonprofit hopes to raise $3 million, which makes up 40 percent of their annual operating budget.
“The Sleep Out is such an important time of year for the organization,” explains Deb Sakry Lande with Interfaith Outreach. She says money raised during the campaign helps keep programs running. “With the onset of COVID, things have gotten even worse for families that we serve and we just want to be there for our community every day in every way.”
There are a variety of ways to participate in the Sleep Out. In previous years, civic groups and volunteers have held large events to sleep outside the Interfaith Outreach office in Plymouth.
“Partly because of COVID, we are not doing a physical sleep out on our property, but we are encouraging people to sleep out in their own backyards,” said Lande.
Intentional about the Sleep Out
One volunteer from Long Lake is intentional about sleeping outside on Thanksgiving, so he can draw attention to suffering in his community on a day that is filled with being thankful for blessings.
“I do my little thing which I think is kind of reference to the suffering that goes on at the same time,” said Henry Brantingham.”There’s a balance in the world between suffering and love. There’s always both.”
Brantingham raises money for Interfaith Outreach and has been doing so for about 10 years.
If you don’t want to sleep outside and fund raise, you can also donate or help spread awareness about suburban homelessness and what Interfaith Outreach does to help.
“Whatever works for you. Every little bit helps,” said Lande.
See also: New Interfaith Outreach Executive Director: “We Have Families That Are Struggling.”
