Member Article

Business and community leaders sleep outside to help combat homelessness in Oxford

A national charity is urging business leaders in Oxford to spend a night under the stars to raise funds to tackle homelessness.

CEO Sleepout is a national initiative that raises vital funds for charities at the frontline of homelessness and poverty by asking company owners, managers and executives to sleep outside. The initiative, which has raised over £3 million to date, is heading to Oxford for the first time in October.

Chief executive Bianca Robinson said: “This will be our first event in Oxford, and we’ve chosen it because often in areas where we see the greatest wealth, we also see the greatest inequality. This is an opportunity for Oxfordshire’s bighearted business leaders to show they care about some of the most marginalised people in its communities.

“Oxfordshire is a beacon of learning and leadership, and I would hope to see leaders of businesses big and small get behind this important cause, showing compassion for local people who may be homeless or facing real dread over bills, heating and food as winter approaches.”

With over 20 already signed up to take part, CEO Sleepout expects to fill the 20 remaining places for the event, which takes place on October 17th at Christ Church Meadow. One volunteer taking part in the event is Jane Cranston, Chair of Oxfordshire Homeless Movement, which is set to benefit from funds raised by the event.

Jane said: “I’m passionate about trying to ensure that nobody should have to sleep rough on our streets. With property prices as high as they are in Oxford most people really are only one pay cheque away from not being able to settle their rent. By taking part, you play a part in helping to support those who are struggling through no fault of their own .”

Also getting ready for a night under the stars is Oxfordshire Homeless Movement’s Project Director Yvonne Pinner, who said: “We are incredibly grateful to be the recipient of the funds from the CEO Sleepout in Oxford and the awareness that this will also create for the work that we do.

“Oxfordshire Homeless Movement is a partnership of the many organisations working to help those experiencing homelessness in Oxfordshire and to ensure that nobody has to sleep rough on our streets. All the donations received will go directly towards helping those experiencing homelessness across Oxfordshire.

“We are incredibly grateful to anyone who raises money and awareness to help combat homelessness. We always say that lots of small actions taken together can make a big difference, and this is a perfect example of that. For the business community to come together and take action to help people experiencing homelessness is just brilliant – thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.”

Bianca added: “I can’t promise it will be warm, or even comfortable, but, by taking part, you’ll experience an unforgettable night sleeping under the stars at Christ Church Meadow. It might even be the best sleep you’ll ever have - because you could change somebody’s life. All you need is a big heart, a sleeping bag and be willing to raise or donate £1000 as we unite to fight homelessness.”

To sign up, head to www.ceosleepoutuk.com/oxford

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Pay-as-Hugo .