Words by Smiley Team
This year, instead of their annual Sleep Out event, youth homelessness charity Centrepoint started something new: STAY:UP. Coronavirus meant that the annual Sleep Out event - which has raised funds for over 15 years - had to be cancelled, and the fundraising focus shifted to something that could happen in spite of the pandemic.
The aim of STAY:UP was simple: Tackle your tiredness, banish bedtime and don’t fall asleep. From having an all-night dance party to marathoning movies, people around the country got involved in support of the charity. There were 12 hour bike rides, pyjama parties, karate sessions and even a Zwift marathon.
People at home also watched along to the live performance by The Vamps, as well as their Q&A. The charity also held an ‘In Conversation’ segment between ex Centrepoint resident Brookemorgan and ex GB athlete, Jade Johnson. There were special messages from staff and celebs alike, and the charity also held had a cook-along with Ching He Huang.
For those who were unable to take part in STAY:UP this year, don’t panic – you can still get involved with their charity auction. From VIP tickets to The Vamps’ 2021 tour to a West Ham t-shirt signed by the entire squad, there is something for everyone.
With their usual event sleep Sleep Out, the charity’s intention is never to replicate rough sleeping, but rather to give people an idea of the situation a lot of young people find themselves in.
The same goes for STAY:UP. Many young people - even if they are able to stay somewhere with a roof over their heads, do not feel safe enough to fall asleep. They often wander the streets until morning, where they then head straight to school or college.
The STAY:UP challenge raises awareness about how hard it is for young people to function without somewhere safe to sleep.
In total, £296,021 was raised on the night, with more money still coming in. These funds will allow Centrepoint to continue their vital work helping over 10,000 young people each year. To find out how you can get involved and support their mission head to their website.
