Last night, more than 150 people took to the stands of ATM Headingley Stadium to brave the cold in aid of three Leeds based charities.
The event, which was organised by the Leeds Rhinos Foundation, St Gemma’s Hospice and St George’s Crypt, saw people vowing to give up a night of comfort to raise funds for some of the city’s most vulnerable.
People from across the community including businesses, volunteers and staff, came together to take part in the fundraising to highlight the plight of homelessness, faced by many across our city.
Over the past 8 years, the event has raised over £300,000 for the three charities, allowing them to continue their life changing work throughout the city of Leeds.
Katie Bell, Corporate Fundraising Manager at St Gemma’s Hospice commented on the event: “It’s so lovely to see the Leeds community come together to support three great charities, who make such a difference to the people in our city.
“At any one-time St Gemma’s Hospice cares for 22 patients in the Hospice and over 300 in the community, and every penny raised tonight for the Hospice will help us to continue providing vital end of life care for patients and their families in Leeds.”
Lisa Aldred, Head of Fundraising at the St George’s Crypt added: “This is my fourth year at this amazing event in Leeds, it really is a privilege to come together as a collaborative effort with 3 great charities working together. All the monies raised is a three-way split, supporting the work each charity does.
“The atmosphere tonight was incredible with our return favourite the rock n roll bingo!
“Next year sees our 95th anniversary celebrations commence, which is a very exciting time to commemorate the long-standing support we have given the homeless people 365 days a year.”
Commenting on the success of the sleepout, Gareth Cook, Head of Community and Engagement of Leeds Rhinos Foundation, said: “Leeds Big Sleep 2024 has yet again been a huge success, bringing people together to raise vital funds for three worthy causes.
The funding will go towards supporting some of the most vulnerable in the city and provide a long-lasting impact. Once again, I cannot thank people enough for their amazing contributions.”
Throughout the night, donations flooded in, with sleepers encouraged to continue to raise funds.
If you would like to support the event, please CLICK HERE.