Perse pupils sleep out to raise funds for homelessness charity

19 May 2020

Year 9 Perse pupils have helped raise £3,350 for homelessness charity Emmaus Cambridge, by taking part in a sponsored sleep-out.

The annual event usually takes place at the Upper school site, but despite the shutdown due to the coronavirus pandemic, youngsters still wanted to do their bit to support Emmaus.

So 31 pupils bedded down with sleeping bags and cardboard in their gardens in aid of the charity, which helps homeless people work their way out of their situation by giving them meaningful roles as well as the stability of having a roof over their head for as long as required.

Each participant recorded a ‘street performance’ and watched videos from Emmaus volunteers, who explained their experiences of homelessness and how the cause had supported them, as well as the impact of Covid-19 on the charity.

One volunteer commented on the pupils’ sleep-out: “What an unbelievable gesture. The fact that you guys have gone out of your way and done something for people you’ve never met, I thank you as an individual, and on behalf of all of the staff, companions and trustees. They need to know what you’ve done for us. It’s absolutely amazing.”

Perse Charities Co-ordinator Chloe Fagan added: “The sleep-out went so well. I was really impressed by the resilience and determination of the pupils. They raised an incredible £3,350, which is amazing and will make a huge difference to Emmaus Cambridge at what is a really difficult time for charities.

“They enjoyed the experience of doing something really valuable during the lockdown and hope that the money will make a difference.”

Watch Dylan Abbiss’ ‘street performance’ below.