BOSSES across Milton Keynes are taking up a
challenge to sleep out in a bid to raise money for the fight against
homelessness and poverty.
Pictured are some of the first to sign up to the
CEO Sleepout challenge, taking place on November 7 when they will give up their
warm beds to literally ‘sleep out’ in a bid to raise money for local
charities.
CEO Sleepout has partnered with YMCA MK and the
MK Dons Sport and Education Trust (to bring together fundraisers from all walks
of life to expoerience a little of what those without homes go through every
single night.
Since the charity was
founded in 2013, CEO Sleepout events have been held at venues across the
country, including at Wembley Stadium, St James’ Park, Newcastle, Old Trafford
cricket ground, The Alnwick Garden and Lord’s Cricket Ground. Its events have
raised more than £2 million to date.
“Although it is only for one night and does not
come close to what homeless people experience night after night, CEO Sleepout
is intended to raise awareness and lots of money to fight homelessness locally
and nationally but also to remind all of us in business, about our social
responsibility,” said CEO Sleepout chief executive Bianca Robinson.
She called on fellow business leaders to join
them in the initiative.
Milton Keynes has been identified as the youth
homelessness capital of the UK and YMCA MK are approached by over 1,000 young
people every year, needing somewhere to live. The charity is redeveloping its
accommodation in Central Mkilton Keynes to create 199 rooms, commercial and
social activities to help homeless young people into employment.
YMCA MK chief executive Simon Green said: “We
are seeking to develop stronger links with the business community to develop
further employment opportunities for our young people. The CEO Sleepout event
will provide funds to help maintain the availability of this support for our
residents, as well as a unique networking opportunity for us to help young
people belong, contribute and thrive.”
A number of business leaders have already signed
up to take part, including Jo Carter of Concept Personnel, who has been
instrumental in bringing the event to Milton Keynes, new Mayor Sam Crooks, MK
Dons SET chair John Cove and others from across all industries.
Mr Cove said: “We know that sport,
and football in particular, can inspire everyone. We also have a responsibility
to use this inspiration as a catalyst to people making healthy and active
lifestyle choices. So, while our programmes are fun and innovative, they are
focused on delivering clear health messages and improving educational
attainment. The money raised by this event will help support the continuation
of this work particularly those at risk of homelessness.”
Find out more, including on how to sign up for
the CEO Sleepout Milton Keynes, visit: https://www.ceosleepoutuk.com/milton-keynes/
