A Way Home Kamloops has launched registrations for its fourth annual Campout To End Youth Homelessness.
Like many other fundraisers in 2020, it’s going to look a little bit different this year, due to the pandemic.
The campout is an annual fundraiser that helps shine a light on youth homelessness in Kamloops. Participants camp overnight, outside in a cardboard box, and collect pledges for the cause. Campers are encouraged to raise money to fund programs that help support homeless youth in Kamloops.
With physical distancing a priority, what is normally a group campout event of more than 50 people will now see 30 people camping in McDonald Park in North Kamloops on Dec. 11 and into Dec. 12.
But that isn’t the only way to participate.
A Way Home Kamloops is encouraging people to sign up to do their campout virtually, by finding a safe spot in their yard to set up.
“We will drop off a cardboard box and a little goodie bag for everybody,” A Way Home Kamloops executive director Katherine McParland said.
Distanced participants will be able to stay connected through social media and Zoom sessions and A Way Home Kamloops is following coronavirus safety protocols at the McDonald Park location.
“We have a pretty solid COVID-19 plan in place,” McParland said.
Whether one intends to campout virtually or in person, they will need to register in advance online at awayhomekamloops.com. Early registration is advised for those wishing to reserve one of the 30 -in-person spots.
Last year, the event raised just over $50,000, a mark organizers are again aiming to hit. Money raised goes to fund A Way Home Kamloops programs, which provide youth with housing, education and employment training. Previous campouts have helped open Safe Suites supportive housing and funded the Youth Housing First program, which housed 71 youth in 2019.
TD Bank returns as the title sponsor for the event for the second year in a row, but McParland said that they are still looking for more business sponsors. Businesses interested in stepping up to the plate can also register online.
