Camp Out to End Youth Homelessness 2024 (Image credit: Tangie Genshorek/Contributed)

By Sydney Chisholm

A Way Home Kamloops

Annual Campout to End Youth Homelessness raised more than $55k

Dec 16, 2024 | 5:15 PM

KAMLOOPS — A Way Home Kamloops raised more than $55,000 during its 8th annual Campout to End Youth Homelessness over the weekend, falling short of its ambitious $200,000 goal but still marking a significant contribution to the cause.

Twenty-seven participants set up camp outside the organization’s office, braving unseasonably warm temperatures and rain to support homeless youth in the community.

“The weather was warm, plus three most of the night,” said Tangie Genshorek, executive director of A Way Home Kamloops. “We had some rain, but that rain didn’t freeze, so that made the camping fairly comfortable. As comfortable as it can be when you’re sleeping in a wet cardboard box.”

Genshorek praised the dedication of community members, noting that some have participated in all eight campouts since the event’s inception.

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“At this moment we’ve raised $55,795, which is absolutely incredible,” Genshorek told CFJC News.

“That’s our campers doing that work– going out to community and asking people to pledge, their support for them to camp out. It’s an amazing, amazing event that really brings our community together.”

The fundraising campaign continues until Jan. 17, with organizers hoping to narrow the gap to their target.

The $200,000 goal represents a significant increase from previous years, reflecting the growing challenges faced by non-profit organizations and community members alike.

“It’s getting harder and harder for not-for-profits,” Genshorek explained. “And for a lot of people in the community, it’s harder to make ends meet.”

A Way Home Kamloops, founded by the late Katherine McParland, has been at the forefront of efforts to combat youth homelessness in the region. The organization operates several programs, including the Safe Suites Program, which has provided housing and 24/7 support to youth for over six years.

The annual campout, started in 2017 by McParland and local business owner Rocky Hunter, aims to raise awareness about the often hidden nature of youth homelessness. Many affected youth couch-surf or live in unsafe spaces due to limited options.

Despite the fundraising shortfall, organizers remain optimistic about the event’s impact. The campout has played a crucial role in supporting initiatives like Katherine’s Place, a 39-unit low-barrier housing project for at-risk youth, currently under construction.

Those interested in supporting A Way Home Kamloops and the Campout to End Youth Homelessness, click here.