Sleep Out Saturday Imagines and Inspires

Over $130,000 was raised to help homeless families in DuPage County cross the bridge from homelessness to self-sufficiency through Sleep Out Saturday, Bridge Communities’ largest fundraising and awareness-building event, held November 3rd.  Fifty-two youth, church and community groups slept out in parks and parking lots throughout DuPage County.  In addition, dozens of families participated, sleeping in backyards and driveways.

Funds raised through Sleep Out Saturday will directly benefit Bridge Communities’ Transitional Housing Program, which provides homeless families in DuPage County with shelter, case management, employment search and assistance, education and tutoring, counseling, and car donations.  Bridge helps over 100 families each year transition from homelessness to self-sufficiency, financial stability and permanent housing.

In addition to fundraising, Sleep Out Saturday serves to raise awareness about the invisible homeless – homeless families – and the lack of affordable housing in DuPage County.  Bridge Communities not only provides the Transitional Housing Program but also serves as a tireless advocate for homeless families and for affordable housing options.

Nearly 2,000 people participated in this year’s Sleep Out Saturday.

"This year's theme of "Imagine" really inspired people to reach higher in their goal-setting, to get more creative in their fundraising, and to become more vocal in helping us spread the word about the homeless family crisis in our community," shares Event Manager Jennie Gates.  "Every year I'm inspired by what we experience, this year more than ever."

Sleep Out Saturday 2012 is officially in the books, but the need still exists and is greater than ever, as DuPage homeless families struggle to find affordable housing and access basic needs.  People interested in learning more about ways to help Bridge Communities in its mission to help homeless families cross the bridge to self-sufficiency should contact Amy Van Polen at (630) 545-0610 ext. 12 or amy.vanpolen@bridgecommunities.org