4th Annual Homeless Night Challenge fundraiser will be rocking

Preparations for the 4th annual Homeless Night Challenge are well underway.

The homeless night challenge is a fundraiser for the Hope Awaits Ministries Men’s Shelter (Hope Awaits) here in North Bay.

According to Nicole Millage, Executive Director, it also raises awareness for local homelessness, with the event geared toward having participants learn more about what it’s like for those living in that situation. 

“We have a shelter building competition,” says Millage. “Where people build shelter out of things they can find out in the street. Like cardboard, tape, tarps and other activities as well throughout the event all to help raise awareness and show what life is like for those currently without a home.”

Millage says this year, they’re ahead of the game. 

“We’ve almost raised $20,000 for the event already and it’s only the beginning of March. We’re excited. We also just locked in a live band for the event. Roadhouse will be playing. We’re excited to have them and hoping to have more performers announced soon.”

Millage says all of the funds raised go to Hope Awaits, which helps get homeless men off the street.

She says they’re more of a longer-term facility where once accepted in their program, staff work with them to establish and meet goals to get them back on their feet. 

“We’ve had men go back to school, find employment, start careers and get their own housing. Our goal is to end homelessness in the city,” she says.

Millage says everyone person is different, with their own stories, goals and dreams. 

“When they’re admitted in, we have a specific staff member that’s paired with them to work on that plan to help them achieve those goals. There’s no cookie-cutter approach to helping each person. You have to get to know them and how to help them personally.” 

The fundraising event will be on June 3 from 12-7 pm with a goal of raising $100,000.

Over 120 men have been housed since they opened 5 years ago. 

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