Did you know, on any night in the streets of Vancouver there are approximately 500 to 1,000 young individuals trying to get a good night’s sleep? Vancouver’s downtown streets are dangerous at night, especially for youth; and because of this scary stat The Covenant House in Vancouver was founded with means to help this group of youth. Each year they host a “sleep out” challenging those to spend a night outside with only a sleeping bag.
Jen Hamilton, Dainia Leong and 160 individuals committed their time and resources to sleep out in the rain on cardboard for this cause. In the end this amazing group of people raised over $150,000 exceeding their donations from the previous year.
After the event Jen Hamilton was humbled saying this about her experience, “It really made homelessness a reality as we experienced the elements. We also had the opportunity to meet some individuals from the covenant house who shared their stories on how this support system literally change their lives and gave them a new lease on life. Having early interventions to prevent mental health issues can create a goal to reach for… if we could have more support systems like this one in place… Maybe we can change more lives. Being a part of this event was truly gratifying and opened my eyes up to more possibilities on avenues to help people”
Dainia said the same: that this was an eye opening and humbling experience for the group of individuals who took the time to create awareness and support for youth in need. Dainia was happy to create the opportunity for support and hopes to get more people involved in her own studio for next years sleep out.
Oxygen is amazing at supporting their community. If you have an event or fundraiser you’d like us to be a part of don’t hesitate to contact us.
Thank you Jen, Dainia, the Covenant House Vancouver, Joseph Richards group and everyone else who participated in raising support for this cause: you really do change lives.
