Eden Project invites Cornwall to Sleep Out for annual fundraiser
The annual event supports charities amid rising rough sleeping rates
The Eden Project is calling on people in Cornwall to take part in its annual Sleep Out event on the 12th November, as part of efforts to support local homelessness charities, St Petrocs and the Amber Foundation.
Participants will spend the night between Eden’s Biomes and engage in activities such as cookery workshops, live music, readings, and talks from those with direct experiences of homelessness.
This event comes amidst rising concern over homelessness, as recent figures show an 11% increase in rough sleeping across the South West, with a 94% rise among 18-to-25-year-olds.
The Prime Minister recently pledged to provide a route off the streets by Christmas for those sleeping rough in England, backed by £442 million in funding, a move organisers say adds urgency to this year’s Sleep Out.
Dan James, Eden Project's development director, expressed pride in hosting the event once again, urging people to join and support local homelessness initiatives, and said: "We’re proud to be hosting the Sleep Out at the Eden Project once again, in support of the Amber Foundation and St Petrocs, whose work makes a real difference to people in need across the region."
Henry Meacock, chief executive of St Petrocs, highlighted the critical role of the Sleep Out in raising awareness and funds for long-term support for those overcoming homelessness: "That is why the Eden Sleep Out is so important.
"It raises awareness and vital funds to help us provide the accommodation and support people need to move beyond homelessness for good."
Becky Fry, Amber Foundation's fundraising and communications manager, emphasised the importance of the event in drawing attention to rising homelessness issues during challenging times, and added: "It is always such a special event and raises much-needed funds and awareness of homelessness at a time of year when things get even tougher for those with no choice but to sleep rough."