The Caritas Brentwood team had the privilege of supporting a Sponsored Sleepout Challenge at St Mark’s West Essex Secondary School. Alongside two staff from Your Place (formerly Caritas Anchor House), we helped students explore the realities of homelessness and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis affecting so many across our country.

The evening began with Mass, offering students a moment to reflect on the experiences of people who are homeless and to consider how tonight was an opportunity to support those sleeping rough.

Siân, Michael and Ava then delivered an engaging and informative presentation. They shared insights into the work of Caritas Brentwood and encouraged students to reflect on their own communities: identifying local needs and imagining ways they might contribute to positive change. As students learned about the many forms of homelessness and the reasons for it, they were invited to explore how they could live in solidarity with those most in need. We explored practical actions they could take going forward, including advocacy, campaigning, and educating friends and family to help ensure the narrative around homelessness changes.

The evening concluded with a prayer, in which we asked God to open our eyes, ears and hands so that we may continue putting our faith into action. We were truly inspired to learn that the students had raised over £1000 in donations for the sleepout.

Reflecting on the night, Michael said:

“It was amazing to see students engaging with and reacting to our input. A particular highlight was the student interviews carried out by the Your Place team at the end of the evening, where we listened to students talk about homelessness and the importance of fundraising events like these Sleepouts. If you can, I would recommend running a sleepout in your own school or parish, the money you raise can really change lives.”

If you’d like guidance on running your own Sponsored Sleepout, visit our dedicated page for more information<<