A HOST of Harrogate businesses have joined forces to help tackle homelessness in the community by taking part in the town’s first-ever Big Harrogate Sleepout.

The inaugural Big Harrogate Sleepout takes place at Harrogate Rugby Club on the evening of Thursday October 3rd, 2024.

With all proceeds from the event dedicated to the project's initiatives, the sleepout aims to serve as a powerful demonstration of solidarity and commitment to addressing homelessness.

Richard Cooper, CEO of Harrogate Homeless Project, said: “While many outsiders may see Harrogate as a prosperous place, the reality is that like any town in this country, it is home to people who do not have a secure home.

“Our purpose as a charity is to provide people experiencing homelessness with a safe place to stay and the support they need to build confidence and move towards independent living.

We do this via initiatives including the Springboard Day Centre, our No Second Night Out emergency overnight accommodation and our Bower Street hostel.

The Big Harrogate Sleepout is a great way for us to raise funds to keep these vital projects going as well as raising awareness of the issue of homelessness and insecure accommodation.”

This event marks a significant milestone in our efforts to support the homeless and those at risk of homelessness in Harrogate, and we're grateful for the commitment of local businesses and leaders.”

For more information on how to get involved or to make a donation, please visit Harrogate Homeless Project's website: https://www.harrogate-homeless-project.org.uk/