Awareness and funds boosted by sleepout

It was organised by Angie Marsh who is a volunteer for Hope 4.

She said: “I decided to org-anise this event to raise money and just as importantly awareness of homelessness in Rugby.

“Taking part in this event gave us a chance to experience what our guests go through every night.

“For us lucky few it was only the one night and it did stay dry but the temperature dropped to -2.

“It is not just the cold, you have to deal with, you also feel very vulnerable and every little sound puts you on edge.”

Hope 4 is a charity for helping homeless and badly-housed people in Rugby and is now based in Newbold Road.

The 18 who took part in the sleepout set up camp in the car park next to the new centre on Friday, February 26.

Mayor of Rugby Richard Dodd went along to see them start their challenge.

Angie stressed how important it was to raise awareness, saying: “I have volunteered for Hope 4 for seven years and people always seem surprised there are homeless people in Rugby, but it is a very real problem.

“People become homeless because of all sorts of reasons and it can happen to anyone. Hope 4 reaches out and gives people a helping hand and shows them that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

“Volunteering is so rewarding and to see someone housed after living on the streets is just the best feeling.”

You can still donate to the sleepover by emailing: [email protected]