A group of University of Guelph business students will spend this week living outdoors without regular access to shelter, shower, food, technology and other amenities as part of the annual 5 Days for the Homeless campaign [1]. This national movement sees university students from across Canada raise awareness of homelessness and funds for youth at risk. This year, University of Guelph business students hope to raise $10,000 for Wyndham House [2].

As part of the campaign, volunteers – “sleepers” – spend five days experiencing a life similar to someone who is homeless. They are permitted to eat only what is donated and only have a pillow and a sleeping bag. They also have no access to personal communication media.

The sleepers chose to volunteer for many reasons, including gaining a better understanding of what people who are homeless experience in their day-to-day lives and raising awareness among the campus community that homelessness is an issue deserving of attention across Canada. This year's sleepers are: Dan Quintal-Curcic, Nathan Parker, Chris Kimmerer, Lana Elsheikha and Arthi Manivannan.

“I volunteered because I wanted to challenge the stigma that homelessness is not a problem in Canada,” said Quintal-Curcic. “Changing people’s perceptions and bringing attention to this serious issue was a huge draw for me.”

The sleepers will be accepting donations in Branion Plaza until Friday, March 24. Donations can also be made online [3].