Hundreds of people are expected to bed down under the stars this November as homelessness charity St Basils marks the 35th year of its annual Big Sleepout.
What began in 1990 as a small fundraising idea has become one of the longest-running charity sleepouts in the UK, raising thousands to support young people facing homelessness across the West Midlands.
This year’s event will feature a brass band from West Midlands Fire Service, belting out Christmas favourites, while Langar Aid volunteers serve hot curry to ward off the cold. The much-loved Creative Cardboard Competition will return, inviting participants to design shelters out of donated cardboard.
The cardboard itself, a crucial part of the night, is being supplied free of charge by Sandland Packaging in Bilston. Their donation will save St Basils thousands of pounds.
Mark Amyes, senior business development manager at Sandland Packaging, said: “We’re delighted and proud to be supporting St Basils this year. It’s such an important cause, especially with so many young people struggling to cope with rising living costs. For us, it’s about doing a good thing and helping others.”
“The Big Sleepout has been going strong for 35 years because of the generosity of the community,” said Barrie Hodge, head of fundraising and communications. “This year we want to make it bigger and brighter than ever and show young people they are not alone. A huge thank you to Sandland Packaging for their incredible support, and to everyone who takes part, donates or volunteers to help us raise the vital funds that make our work possible.”
Registration for the 35th Big Sleepout is now open at https://stbasils.org.uk/events/thebigsleepout.
Search St Basils Sleepout to find out more.
