Macon Sleepout to raise funds, awareness for people in need
Participants spend the evening experiencing life as the homeless do, including sleeping outside in tents. Funds raised through sponsorships will benefit Daybreak and its efforts to support the homeless community.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The 12th annual Macon Sleepout is raising awareness and donations for those in need.
Participants spend the evening experiencing life as the homeless do, including sleeping outside in tents. Funds raised through sponsorships will benefit Daybreak and its efforts to support the homeless community.
Volunteer Letitia Kelly said the Macon Sleepout is a great way for the community to come together to help those in need.
“This is an excellent opportunity for the community to get together and understand the struggle that they sometimes face, and how we, as a people, can come together to help them,” Kelly said.
Kelly added the event shows those who are fortunate enough to have a roof over their heads that homelessness is not always a result of personal choices.
“Our brothers and sisters who are homeless didn’t get there because of something they did. Sometimes, it’s just unfortunate situations that have caused them to be without a home,” Kelly said. “This is important so we can have a more compassionate heart toward our brothers and sisters who are homeless.”
Sister Deborah Mallot, director of Daybreak, believes the Macon community is strong and supportive.
“They care about helping their brothers and sisters, and that’s the reality here in Macon,” Mallott said. “I’ve only been here a short time, but I know Macon citizens really stick together and help one another.”
She said those who are less fortunate are no different from anyone else and that anyone who participates in the Macon Sleepout will be inspired to help going forward.
“I hope they will see the people on the street are just like you and me — people who fell on hard times. But through God, it could have been any of us. I hope they will commit to contributing in any way they can to help their brothers and sisters living on the streets,” Mallot said.
Mallott also said participants will receive a hot meal in the evening, a nice breakfast in the morning, and a program for those who have moved on to housing and jobs.
