(CFJC Today/File photo).

By Aaron Schulze

Campout to End Youth Homelessness

Virtual Campout to End Youth Homelessness hopes to raise $250,000 for Katherine’s Place, programming

Oct 26, 2021 | 1:39 PM

KAMLOOPS — The Campout to End Youth Homelessness will take place virtually for 2021.

The fundraiser for A Way Home Kamloops – the non-profit organization that aims to eliminate youth homelessness in the city by providing them housing and supports – will take place via Zoom from 6:00 p.m. on Dec. 10 to 7:00 a.m. on Dec. 11.

Each year, campers participate by sleeping outside on a mid-December night in cardboard boxes and sleeping bags, while hearing stories from youth with lived expertise of homelessness to directly learn what homelessness is like. A Way Home Kamloops states the virtual event allows for more participants to join with greater accessibility for people with limited mobility and for young children who may not have been able to join in-person. Interested campers can expect a Camper Package full of items and treats for activities and “fireside” stories.

The fifth Campout to End Youth Homelessness will take place one year after the passing of Katherine McParland, A Way Home Kamloops’ founder. The non-profit hopes the campout can raise $250,000 for its Youth Housing First program and programming at Katherine’s Place – a 24/7 supportive building with 39 units for youth aged 19-to-26 who are at-risk of or experiencing homelessness.

“Katherine worked tirelessly to build it and get it to where it is today,” Patti Philips, who is part of the campout planning committee says. “Katherine would be proud. Knowing Katherine’s Place will be coming to fruition is so heartfelt. They will be helping youth to find a safe home and work, to be productive adults in our community.”

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A Way Home Kamloops Programs Manager Kira Cheeseborough says they’re planning special presentations in McParland’s memory. She adds that knowing that joining from home isn’t the same as joining together in a park, they’re putting extra consideration into fun activities and virtual “campfires” for attendees.

Campers are encouraged to create their own version of camping at home. Last year, campers joined from the store fronts of their businesses, backyards, front porches, balconies, cars and from their living rooms. A Way Home Kamloops states homelessness can look like all those scenarios, from couch-surfing to being on the streets and there is no wrong way to camp out.

Anyone interested in the Campout to End Youth Homelessness can learn more online.