People will be braving freezing temperatures for an all-night sleep out in aid of one of the Mayor of Dudley’s charities.

The aim is to raise awareness of homelessness and the work of the council and charities to support people, especially during the cold winter months. A number of sites have been earmarked for the sleep out on February 9, including the Savoy Centre in Netherton.

The event has been organised by the Mayor of Dudley and YMCA Open Door, one of the Mayor’s charities, which works to provide a home for young people. People taking part are encouraged to get sponsorship for braving the cold winter weather overnight. Councillor Dave Tyler, Mayor of Dudley, said:

“This is such an important issue which affects lots of people. This event is about not only highlighting the plight of some of these people who find themselves on the streets, but also the excellent work of people at the YMCA Open Door project in finding a home for people.

“I hope people will brave the cold and raise what they can for this very important cause.”

People raising money can choose to donate half of the money they raise to their own charity, with the other half going to Open Door. Rachael Taylor, Supported Lodgings Manager at YMCA Open Door, said:

“We are delighted that the Mayor has organised this event. All funds raised will go towards recruiting new host families will then go on to support some of the most vulnerable young people in the borough. We are always looking for new hosts who can offer a temporary home to a young person in need.”

The Mayor’s other two charities are Dudley Mind and Dudley Alzheimer’s Society.

For further information about the event, you can contact Fiona Lucas, Ambassador to The Mayor of Dudley, by email, or check the Mayor of Dudley's website.  You can also donate to The Mayor’s appeal online.