Thousands of young people experience homelessness each year, and face immense challenges with few resources. Covenant House Vancouver (CHV) continues to support homeless youth, by providing safety, shelter, and access to numerous resources and support. But we need your help.
What Is Sleep Out?
We’re calling on business leaders, executives, and community members to join us for Sleep Out. The Sleep Out initiative tasks participants to give up their beds for one night and join others in sleeping outside while raising awareness and funds for homeless youth.
“It’s easy to go home each night, close our doors, and forget the struggles of the world outside,” says Sleep Out participant Jared Nicola, Project Manager for Nicola Wealth Real Estate.
Jared adds, “Participating reminds us that the world outside doesn’t hit pause when we are safe and warn in our homes. Taking part in this experience was critical to understanding and solving the challenges around homelessness.”
How does Sleep Out Help Homeless Youth?
By participating in Sleep Out, you’re not just spending a night outside—you’re directly contributing to critical services that empower young people and truly make a difference.
“Get involved. Seek to understand. Approach issues with compassion and an open heart.” says Peter Lukomskyj, CHV board member. “Creating healthy, thriving communities where all are welcome and supported is everyone’s responsibility.”
Your contributions through Sleep Out directly support our programs and services including:
- Drop-In Centre: The centre is a safe haven for youth that provides meals, showers, and essential resources. It’s also a place where they can relax, connect, and begin building trust with our staff.
- Outreach: Our Outreach team connects with homeless youth in the streets, offering essentials like food, first aid, and compassionate guidance. Often, this is the first point of contact in helping young people find their way back to safety and stability.
- Life Skills Training: Through life skills workshops, we empower youth with essential tools for independent living. These workshops cover budgeting, cooking, and maintaining healthy relationships—skills that are essential for all.
- Education and Job Support: Many youth in our programs are working toward high school diplomas or certifications that help them enter the workforce. We offer educational support, as well as assistance in finding employment.
Each program and service provides crucial building blocks to help young people gain the stability and support they need while feeling safe, welcomed, respected, and valued.
How to Get Involved
Ready to join the movement? Sign up here and begin your fundraising journey today and encourage your friends, colleagues, and work teams to participate, too.
If you’re unable to participate, you can still make an impact by donating to the cause. Every donation brings us closer to our goal and makes a difference in the lives of at-risk and vulnerable youth.
We hope you’ll consider joining us—whether by sleeping out or making a donation. Together, we can give young people in our community the support, resources, and hope they need for a brighter future.