Dedicated charity volunteers braved freezing cold temperatures as they slept on the streets to raise awareness of homelessness.
Kind-hearted people of all ages turned out to support Diamonds in the Community’s fourth sponsored sleepout.
They spent 12 hours sleeping on Graham Street in Airdrie town centre in the chilly winter weather, with local businesses also lending their support.
First taking place in 2021, the winter sleepout has also raised thousands for the Monklands Baby and Family Aid project, which collects and distributes vital donated items ranging from clothes and nappies to furniture and white goods to local families in need.
Once again, the generous team at local pub The Staging Post supplied participants with midnight mince and tatties to warm them all up, while Costa Airdrie opened early to serve up hot drinks.
A representative from the charity said: “We always try to make the experience as authentic as possible, and even with a few comforts not available to those sleeping rough such as toilets and hot water for tea and coffee, it was still a trying night in difficult conditions.
“A huge thank you goes to the hardy souls who spent 12 hours on Graham Street – and to everyone who has donated so far; we still have our donation page open.
“Everyone came through the night safe and sound, albeit tired and bedraggled.
“We’d also like to thank The Staging Post for their wonderful food, and Costa Airdrie, especially Magda, for opening early and giving everyone a warm drink to heat themselves up.
“There is no good time to be homeless. No good situation. No good time of the year.
“Freeze on the deserted streets in winter, or risk being attacked when they are busy in summer; it is a no-win situation.
“Thankfully, our team of volunteers can all go home the next day, but if we can raise a wee bit of awareness about the situation thousands of people find themselves in, then it’s job done.”
Search for “DITC Sponsored Sleep Out 2024” here to make a donation to the charity’s fundraising appeal.
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