ICA Sleep Out

SLEEP OUT and RAISE AWARENESS AND FUNDS FOR ICA'S 

HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION PROGRAM!​

We are proud to bring back our iconic Sleep Out after a 14 year hiatus!

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History of the ICA Sleep Out 
The ICA Sleep Out was founded by former Food Logistics Manager and current ICA supporter, John Kokesh. Back in 2000, John decided he would tackle the growing housing stability issue and pledged to sleep out during the whole month of November, giving all donations to our Homelessness Prevention Fund. John did this in memory of his wife and set up a tent in his front lawn. The campaign started out with a $50,000 goal in 2000 and grew to $214,000 in 2008. 

What does Homelessness Prevention mean? 
Along with providing our neighbors with easy access to nutritious food and employment help, homelessness prevention sometimes includes providing financial assistance for a utility bill or a rent payment, without which, clients would lose their hosing. These situations are short-term, with sustainable and foreseeable outcomes, and are determined on a case-by-case basis. 

Why Sleep Out?

Homelessness Prevention is one of ICA's four main services. In 2021 alone, ICA helped 1,036 individuals in our community with rent and utility assistance. The Sleep Out is not about pretending to be homeless, it's about a demonstration to our community, that those facing homelessness and housing insecurity are not alone. 

How do I Sleep Out?

1) Registration begins February 2022! Register for ICA's Sleep Out and receive a kit on how to host your own sleep out within the month of April! Plan a sleep out with your family, friends, roommates, co-workers, or youth group and learn more about preventing homelessness in our community. 

2) Fundraise: Upon registration, create your own personal fundraising page. Invite your friends, family, and networks to sponsor your efforts and contribute to the cause. All participants that raise at least $250 will receive an ICA Sleep Out t-shirt. Prizes will also be awarded to the top fundraising team and top fundraising individual at the end of April!

3) Plan your Sleep Out and Choose your location! As we support people with their housing needs, get out of your comfort zone and find a new location to slumber. Your bed is not an option! Want your Sleep Out featured on ICA social media? Let us know your Sleep Out date by sending an email to abbie@icafoodshelf.org.