For five days, five CME students lived outside, braving the winter weather to raise awareness and money for the homeless. More than 20 universities participated in 5 Days for the Homeless, a nationwide campaign to raise $200,000 for local charities.

From March 13 to 18, the students lived in a cardboard shelter in Branion Plaza with no food, money or access to showers. They relied on the kindness of strangers, who donated meals. They were also required to stay on campus and attend all of their classes, extracurricular activities and work.

“It’s important to tackle this initiative because homelessness can affect anyone, and everyone deserves a place to sleep,” said Tom Beckett, a first-year hotel and food administration student.

The students exceeded their $5,000 goal, raising more than $5,500 for Wyndham House, a local organization that provides co-operative housing for youth.

In addition to Beckett, this year’s participants included Kara Cabuyao, management economics; Justin Sythes and Samantha Cherry, marketing management; and Andrew Cumpson, hotel and food administration.