A team from Emmaus Cambridge is joining forces with refugee organisation, Cambridge Convoy Refugee Action Group (CamCRAG) to brave a night out under the stars.

They will take part in the Big Sleep-out to raise money for people experiencing homelessness or displacement during conflict, which causes homelessness.

The Big Sleepout is being held at St Giles’ Church, Cambridge on the weekend of February 10/11. 

Ely Standard: The big sleep out event in 2023.The big sleep out event in 2023. (Image: Emmaus)

The public can sign-up to join the sleepout or donate to support these two local charities. One way of getting involved is by attending the Winter Fair, hosted at the same location on Saturday February 10, from 12pm – 4pm.

This event precedes the sleepout and visitors will discover a range of stalls selling vintage clothes and books, food and drink, crafts, a raffle plus much more.

Ely Standard: There is a charity shop at Emmaus in Waterbeach.There is a charity shop at Emmaus in Waterbeach. (Image: Emmaus)

Emmaus Cambridge, join the sleepout as they celebrate a major milestone in the history of their charity.

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In 1954 in France, Emmaus founder Abbé Pierre delivered a powerful speech across the media to call for public help with the state of homelessness in France, where people were dying in the street from cold and lack of food.

Ely Standard: Emmaus Founder Abbé Pierre.Emmaus Founder Abbé Pierre. (Image: Emmaus)

The Uprising of Kindness appeal triggered unprecedented donations and led to the growth of the Emmaus movement.

A group of companions from Emmaus, who have previously experienced homelessness and now have a home at Emmaus Cambridge and a member of the Emmaus staff team are sleeping out in solidarity with others in need.

Jon Cook, a companion who is getting involved said: “The sleepout is a great way we can all stand together in solidarity and support one another. People are still freezing to death on the streets and millions are living in poverty and - this is our way of making a difference and saying we won't have it."

Donna Talbot, CEO of Emmaus Cambridge said: “We really hope that our supporters and people across Cambridgeshire and beyond view this sleepout as an opportunity to show kindness to others.

"A donation of any level will make a big difference and ensure those who are often overlooked are recognised and supported."