What is the World’s Big Sleep Out?

 

On one night, December 7, 2019, people in 50 cities around the world will sleep out in a moment of global solidarity for people experiencing homelessness and displacement, raising awareness and funding for local and international organizations. Major cities sleeping out include London, New York, New Delhi, Madrid, Mexico City and Chicago, with headlining celebrities like Will Smith and Dame Helen Mirren.

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How are DePaul University and the Institute of Global Homelessness involved?

 

The Institute of Global Homelessness, housed at DePaul University, is one of the international organizations that will benefit from funds raised. DePaul University is pleased to host Chicago’s Big Sleep Out to help Chicagoans who are experiencing homelessness. As an urban university, DePaul is deeply involved in the life of a global community. It assists in finding just solutions to community problems, especially those which impact our neighbors most in need. Learn more about IGH’s work here.

 

Where will it be held and who can attend?
 

Chicago’s Sleep Out will be held on the Quad of DePaul University’s Lincoln Park campus. Anyone over the age of 18 is welcome to register, raise funds, and sleep out.

 

 

What will happen at the event?
 

An inspiring program will run from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. that night. It will feature dance and musical performances and center the voices of people who have experienced homelessness.

 

Do people have to bring their own sleeping bags? Are tents allowed?
 

Participants should dress warmly and bring their own sleeping bags. Tents and other structures will not be allowed.

 

Can I attend the event and not sleep out?
 

The World’s Big Sleep Out is meant to show solidarity for the hardships that people experiencing homelessness face. If you would like to fundraise but cannot sleep out, please consider donating to someone else’s campaign. There will be a limited number of volunteer opportunities available closer to the event.

 

Can kids attend?

 

Unfortunately, no one under the age of 18 can attend the DePaul event, but anyone younger than 18 can host their own Little Sleep Out. See more details here.

 

 

 

How do I volunteer?
 

Limited volunteer spots will be available; more information to come soon!

 

What’s the backup plan if weather is bad? How bad will the weather have to be for it to be held indoors?
 

Safety is our first priority. The planning committee will be monitoring weather conditions closely, and if we determine that the temperature, wind chill, precipitation, or other factors is too severe, we will move the program indoors.