Volunteers with the Windsor Residence for Young Men (WRYM) bundled up for the ‘Virtual Rough Night Out 2021’ fundraiser to help bring awareness to homeless youth.
Volunteers, sponsored by individual donors, braved freezing temperatures on Friday evening. About a dozen people tried 'sleeping rough' all night just as homeless youths are sometimes forced to do. The annual event was virtual this year, with people holding vigils in their own backyards and communicating with each other and supporters online by Zoom and social media.
WRYM Chair of Donor Development Dave Freeman shares a selfie during the Virtual Rough Night Out 2021. (Photo Courtesy of Brian Worrall).
"It was bitter cold," said WRYM Chair of Donor Development Dave Freeman. "The experience really brings home a sense of the hardships and dangers faced by homeless people. By contrast, our volunteers could just go inside their homes to warm up. We are fortunate. Life is not easy for homeless youth. They face violence and serious social, psychological, health and legal issues."
The annual fundraiser is in its fourth year. The total number of pledges for this year’s fundraiser came in at $10, 521, surpassing last year's total of $7, 325.
WRYM provides young men between the ages of 16 – 24 with a supportive home, individual counselling, and basic life skills. Youths with potential are diverted from the streets to reconnect with their community, education and employment.
For more information about Windsor Residence for Young Men and how to donate, visit www.wrym.ca
-With files from Ruby Sweeney
