Chief executive Bianca Robinson (centre) with the participants at the 2022 sleepout
A national initiative is returning to Kent and organisers are urging business leaders to raise vital funds to support the homeless.
The first-ever Kent CEO Sleepout event took place in 2022 and the charity organisers were incredibly impressed that 24 participants were able to raise an incredible £24,000.
So far, 18 CEOs have signed up to participate and organisers are hopeful that more kind-hearted company bosses and executives will register to spend the night under the stars to help raise £30,000.
Chief executive of CEO Sleepout Bianca Robinson said: “No city in the UK is immune to homelessness.
“It’s time for leaders to step up and realise the power they have to make changes within their business ecosystems and communities that will strengthen the fabric of society.
“While I can’t promise a good night’s sleep, what I can promise is that by taking part you will unlock compassion within you to help.”
The funds raised from this event will support charities that are on the frontline helping and reducing the levels of homelessness across its town. This year, CEO Sleepout will support Porchlight, Only A Pavement Away, Walking With The Wounded and Leeds Castle Foundation.
Porchlight is Kent’s leading homelessness charity and last year, it supported more than 8,300 people who were experiencing homelessness, poverty, mental health problems and more.
Jo Skelton, the strategic partnerships manager at Porchlight spoke of her delight at being chosen as one of the charities to benefit from this year’s event. She said: “Funding for our homelessness services is being cut, so we’re extremely thankful for CEO Sleepout’s support.”
The charity recently launched an emergency appeal and is hoping to raise £1m to keep its vital services running as the number of people needing Porchlight’s help is expected to increase further due to the cost of living crisis and Kent’s lack of affordable housing.
Speaking to those who will spend a night in the cold, Jo said: “We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the CEOs and businesses who take part in the sleepout this year. Their time, commitment and support and the donations that each one of them will generate will really make a difference.”
Taking part in her second CEO sleepout is Stephanie Goad, CEO of Golding Homes is passionate about tackling homelessness. She said: “It is a particular problem in Kent where there is a real shortage of affordable homes and support for those at risk of homelessness.”
As a trustee of Porchlight, Stephanie said: “Never has there been a time of greater need as statutory agencies are themselves under pressure and are cutting their funding on homelessness services.
“To anyone considering doing the sleepout, don’t think about it, just do it. The time for action is now.”
So far, CEO Sleepout events have raised £3.6 million to support those affected by homelessness across the UK.
If you would like to sign up for this event, visit: ceosleepoutuk.com/kent