Are you up to the Cardboard City challenge?
-
06 Jan 2011
Stroud’s Mayor has signed-up to spend a night sleeping on the streets in support of a campaign by a Stroud charity that helps the disadvantaged and homeless.
On Friday February 4th Stroud-based charity Marah is challenging people to spend the night in its Cardboard City - with nothing more than a sleeping bag and a hot soup and roll to keep warm.
Bank Gardens will be the home when Marah sets up its Cardboard City to raise awareness and funds to enable it to continue its work with some of the most marginalised in our community.
“We would like anyone to join in to demonstrate their solidarity,” said James Green, who himself has been helped by Marah and is now helping to organise this event. “When you don’t have a lot to start with, cuts and economic austerity can take away even the little you have.”
Cardboard City will take place in Bank Gardens in the centre of Stroud on Friday February 4th. It will start with participants being offered hot soup and a roll before being officially opened by local MP Neil Carmichael at 10 pm. It will finish at 7am with bacon butties for those who have managed to make it through the night.
Stroud Town Council has supported Marah's work with major grants for several years. Mayor Andy Read will be aiming to make it through the night on the 4th. “I was homeless for a short period whilst at university and had to spend some nights on a friend’s floor and in the back of a car. But that was in the summer. I can’t imagine having to sleep outside during the weather we’ve had this winter.”
“People tend to think of homelessness as only existing in London or Bristol, but it effects a wide range of people in every town. It is a complex issue and I hope Marah's event will get people thinking and donating.”
Marah is hoping its Cardboard City will raise up to £5,000 from sponsorship of the individuals sleeping rough and would love to hear from you if you would like to take part.
Bryan Court, a Marah Trustee, said: “It will be tough and I am not sure I will make it. However I am lucky, I only have to do it for one night.”
If you are challenged by this opportunity, are in good health and want to make a difference, then Marah would love to hear from you;. Please contact James Green at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phone on 01453 76 76 55. Find out more about Marah's work from its website www.marah.org.uk.
Article added online 6th January 2011.
Pictures copyright Andy Read
