Strabane Sleep Out highlights homelessness and raises vital funds for local support services

WHILE many of us were safe in the warmth of our own home, a group of six hardy souls recently braved the elements to raise awareness of the plight of the homeless.

The 'Strabane Satellite Sleep Out' was part of an initiative by Shelter NI during Homeless Awareness Week (December 1 to 7), aimed at helping raise awareness of the issue and vital funds for support services, such as Shelter NI's GABLE Project in Strabane.

The long-standing project, funded through Supporting People and working in partnership with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive grants department, offers a range of services to older and disabled people living in the private sector to help them maintain their independence and live more safely and securely in their own homes.

On Saturday, December 6, the group spent the night outdoors in a symbolic act of solidarity with those who face homelessness every day.

They set up camp at The Pagoda at Abercorn Square from 5pm on Saturday, December 6, until 5am the following morning.

"At 5pm on Saturday, December 6, six of us gathered at the Pagoda, ready to spend the next 12 hours on the streets of Strabane for Homelessness Awareness Week," a spokesperson said.

"We arrived prepared for the forecasted weather, with sleeping bags, warm clothes and a sense of purpose.

"As the evening unfolded, the people of Strabane showed incredible generosity.

"Donations came steadily - a reminder that the community stands with those experiencing homelessness.

"By 9pm, when the temperature was beginning to drop, Tusk Takeaway and Restaurant provided a hot meal that kept our energy up. Later, McDonald's also stepped in with food to help us through the night.

"We were lucky. The predicted rain never arrived, the temperature stayed above 10°C, and the wind was barely noticeable.

"For 12 hours, we could focus on raising awareness and funds - safe, well fed, and with a warm place to return to afterwards."

Just 72 hours later, Storm Bram swept across Northern Ireland, bringing sustained winds of 25 to 40 mph, gusts up to 60 mph, and widespread flooding along coastal areas.

"The cruel reality of sleeping rough in poor weather became very stark," the group spokesperson continued.

"Tragically, on Wednesday, December 10, a homeless man was found dead in Belfast.

"For us, the Sleep Out was a temporary challenge. For rough sleepers, every night is a battle against cold, hunger and danger.

"Some members of our team have lived through these conditions - not by choice.

"They know the sting of frost on bare skin, the bite of the wind through thin clothing, and the exhaustion of a hard, cold surface beneath you. These are realities we could only begin to imagine.

"The kindness of the people of Strabane reminded us that even a little support can make a difference.

"Homelessness is a persistent struggle that cannot be solved in 12 hours.

"Your donations, awareness, and support are vital. Together, we can help ensure that no one faces storms like Bram without a safe place to sleep."

Thanks is extended to all who supported the Sleep Out and the Christmas Pie & Quiz in the Fir Trees Hotel the previous evening.

Homelessness Awareness Week - held annually in December - is a vital initiative that shines a spotlight on the issues faced by individuals experiencing homelessness.

The week promotes understanding, compassion and action, encouraging communities to work together to address the root causes of homelessness and support those affected.

Shelter NI was founded in 1980 and is a charity whose mission is to promote and facilitate the provision of sufficient, decent and affordable homes to end long-term homelessness and eliminate poor housing.