Yesterday afternoon, over 200 students from four Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) secondary schools came together at St. Benedict’s Catholic Secondary School to take part in the second annual sleepout as part of the Homes for Hope campaign. The initiative is a vital effort to combat housing insecurity and support local organizations, A Better Tent City and Bridges, in providing shelter and assistance to those in need in the Region of Waterloo.
The campaign, which launched on Thanksgiving weekend, has been a resounding success, raising awareness and funds for the cause. Generous contributions from the WCDSB community had already reached an impressive $8,000 prior to the sleepout. With additional donations from the event, the total raised continues to grow.
The sleepout offered students a powerful learning experience, including keynotes and workshops led by impactful guest speakers. Ashley Schuitema, a staff lawyer with Waterloo Region Community Legal Services, discussed the complexities of housing insecurity, while Laura Mae Lindo, a community activist and Assistant Professor at Wilfrid Laurier University, inspired students to see their role in building supportive communities. Facilitators from St. Jerome’s University and Father Toby from St. Mary’s also shared insights, encouraging empathy and awareness of systemic issues contributing to housing inequities.
(Jeff Pickel from CTV Kitchener interviews Rosie Currie, Math & Religion teacher at St. Benedict CSS and event coordinator, during sleepout for the evening news.)
As the night unfolded, students engaged in reflective activities, including a sign-making vigil along Franklin Boulevard, group discussions, and community-building exercises. The evening concluded with prayer and quiet preparation for a cold night in tents, supervised by dedicated staff and Waterloo Regional Police Service officers.
As the campaign officially wraps up tomorrow, donations are still being accepted. Every dollar makes a difference, whether it means a warm meal, a blanket, or simply hope for a brighter future. With winter around the corner, this is a critical time to support those in need.
To contribute to the Homes for Hope campaign and help make a lasting impact in our community, please donate by clicking here. Together, we can bring warmth and hope to those who need it most.
