Rhinos Head of Operations Signs up for Big Sleep 2018

Sue Ward will join volunteers to raise money for vulnerable people in Leeds

On Thursday 29th November, head of operations for Leeds Rhinos, Sue Ward, will be taking part in the upcoming Leeds Big Sleep 2018 at Emerald Headingley Stadium to raise money for vulnerable people in the city.

Leeds Rhinos Foundation is partnering with local Leeds charities St Gemma’s Hospice and St George’s Crypt to run the fundraising event for another year, which will see the group of volunteers sleep a night on the Carnegie Terrace.

Homelessness and poverty in Leeds has been on the rise. Following a 20% rise between 2016 and 2017, that total is set to increase again in the coming years.

Senior figures and business leaders from Leeds are expected to take part in the Leeds Big Sleep and the target is to raise £30,000 for the three charities to support their work with some of Leeds’ most vulnerable people.

Ward joins Yorkshire Evening Post editor Hannah Thaxter and members of the three charities on the list of volunteers already signed up for this year’s sleepout. 

 “I’m really looking forward to taking part in the Big Sleep this year,” said Ward. “I know the venue very well, having worked here for twelve years, but sleeping out in the terraces will be a new experience for me! 

“I can usually sleep anywhere but we’ll soon see if that’s true! The nights are getting colder so I think it will be tough for the volunteers but it’s the least I can do to raise needed funds for three wonderful charities who do such great work for our community.

“To be able to raise awareness and money for vulnerable people is the main reason why I’m taking part. It’s going to be a reminder of how lucky I am and I really hope that people can relate and donate.”

Gareth Cook, community manager at Leeds Rhinos Foundation’s, said: “We are delighted that Sue has signed up for the Big Sleep.

“She is already involved with a lot of the work delivered by the Foundation in partnership with the club and this is yet another great example of foundation and club collaboration. Sue is the club lead on the stadium redevelopment and is literally going to have Emerald Headingley Stadium as her second home for the night.
“I would like to encourage club staff, partners, friends and family to get behind Sue’s efforts and raise funds to support vulnerable people throughout Leeds.”

Click here to donate to Sue’s donation page or got to https://mydonate.bt.com/events/2018leedsbigsleep for other donations.

If you want more information about the event, email gailc@st-gemma.co.uk.
 

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