Students raise funds for youth at risk through 5 Days for the Homeless campaign

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. 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.

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.