7/15/2009

Chattanooga, Tenn. – To raise awareness and money, the Interfaith Homeless Network will host a “Camp Out to Stamp Out” Family Homelessness event on Friday, Oct. 23 from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. at the First Tennessee Pavilion.

For a donation ($50 per person or $100 per family), participants experience what it’s like to be homeless by bringing their own tent or cardboard box, spending the night outdoors and eating from a soup kitchen.  Registration and donations can be made online at www.ihnchattanooga.org or by calling (423) 756-3891.

“Our mission is to end family homelessness one family at a time,” said Mary Ellen Galloway, Interfaith Homeless Network director.  “If we can raise awareness about the plight homeless families face, then we will be successful.”

The experience will include individuals, entire families and youth groups.  Other activities will include a contest for the best Box City home design, children’s activities, talent contest, arts and crafts and games.

“Homeless families struggle for a variety of reasons, but it all boils down to ‘How do we help these families get back on their feet and housed?’” Ms. Galloway said.  “Everyone can do their part to help these families.  You’d be surprised at how many families are just one paycheck away from being homeless.”

“It’s hard for us to understand exactly what homeless families endure by our sleeping out just one night,” said Tina Player who is coordinating the event.  "But you certainly gain a greater appreciation for your warm mattress and other comforts of home.”

Similar campouts for homelessness events have been successful in other cities such as the Cardboard Box City held annually in Rochester, New York, and Reggie’s Sleep Out in Des Moines, Iowa.

For more information, please call Tina Player at (423) 413-5075 or tv555@msn.com