Sleepout raises money for local homeless charities
Golding Homes’ new Chief Executive, Steph Goad, took part in the first Kent CEO sleepout at Leeds Castle on 12 May.
The event organised by CEO Sleepout aims to raise over £30k for two local charities who help homeless people, Porchlight and the Street Soccer Foundation, with Steph personally raising £1,200 so far.
Speaking after the sleepout, Golding Homes Chief Executive and Porchlight trustee Steph Goad, said: “We know in the current climate people are finding it tough. The number of homeless people in Kent and those at risk from homelessness is rising and we all need to do our bit to change the situation. Last night in Kent over 1,000 people were sleeping on the streets.
“I’ve worked with Porchlight for five years and their focus is on making lasting change, working with people on the issues that led them to become homeless.
“I hope the sleepout event will help with both awareness and fundraising. One night out in the open with just a sleeping bag was hard, but I have a hot shower and food to come home to. For too many people that’s not an option.”
Jo Dawes, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Porchlight, said: “We’re thrilled to be benefitting from Kent’s first CEO Sleepout event.
“We hope having business leaders come together in such an iconic venue can help shine a light on the realities of the day-to-day life of the homeless population in our local area.”
Porchlight supported almost 10,000 people in 2021 and would not have been able to do so without the help from the public.
Jo added: “Money from this event will help us to support people living on the streets and those at risk of homelessness.
“It will keep our helpline running for those struggling with their mental health. A donation of £50 is the cost of 10 calls to our helplines – helping us to support 10 vulnerable people.
“The event is timely as the cost of living is increasing at a dramatic rate and Kent residents are among the worst affected. We’re already hearing from an increasing number of people who can’t afford to feed themselves – we’re bracing ourselves for a homelessness crisis in Kent.”
Since CEO Sleepout was founded in 2013, events have raised over £3 million which helps those who are homeless across the country.