What is it like to be homeless? Triangle residents can learn the answer to that question through first-hand experience in a few weeks.
Avalon’s One Night Without a Home event on Nov. 2 gives participants a chance to learn about homelessness and raise awareness of the issue by sleeping outside for one night; the registration deadline to receive the lowest ticket price is Oct. 22.
The experience will start with a soup-kitchen style dinner provided by the Williamsburg Community Chapel, followed by discussion groups, educational activities, and an overnight stay outside with only the boxes participants bring with them for shelter.
Every year, nearly 1,000 Williamsburg-area residents struggle with homelessness or are at great risk of finding themselves on the streets with nowhere to go, according to Avalon. “One Night Without a Home is a great way for people to experience for one night, what many in our community deal with on a daily basis,” said Interim Executive Director, Cathy Tavarozzo. “Participants can learn about what causes homelessness, and what they can do to make a difference.”
Last year, 250 people participated, of which 150 stayed overnight.
The event will kick off National Homeless Youth Awareness Month that is expected to draw Girl Scout Troops, families and interested individuals.
A registration fee of $25 for overnight participant includes dinner, event shirt, activities and breakfast. For evening-only participants, the cost is $15 that includes dinner, event shirt and activities. Register before Oct. 22 to avoid a $10 late registration fee.
For more information or to register online, visit Avalon’s website or call 258-5022 ext. 1008.
