It is estimated that each night 3500 young people are sleeping rough on the streets throughout the UK; there are also many more uncounted who 'sofa surf'. Keeping warm is one of the hardest things they will face as many have nothing to their name other than a carrier bag with some bare essentials.
As part of its Sleep Easy 2017 appeal, YMCA Cambridgeshire & Peterborough is urging Cambridge residents to dig out their unwanted coats and donate them to the homeless rather than putting them in the bin.
Jonathan Martin, Chief Executive of YMCA Cambridgeshire & Peterborough, said: “Most of us have the ability to buy a warm coat that will see us through the cold weather. Many on the streets simply can't afford this luxury, so struggle to keep warm each night. Many people in the community will have coats stored away at the back of the wardrobe or in a cupboard. We are urging you to take the time to dig them out and donate them to our Sleep Easy appeal”.
YMCA Cambridgeshire & Peterborough runs three accommodation services across Cambridgeshire & Peterborough and works with over 450 young people and families every year.
Anyone who wants to donate can drop off their unwanted coats at Queen Anne House in Cambridge (CB1 1ND) or YMCA Charity Shop on Mill Road, Cambridge (CB1 2AD).
To find out more about what YMCA does to help in your community, visit: www.theymca.org.uk
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