The idea is to have a Youth lock-in to raise awareness of the homeless in the area. The youth get people to sponsor them with donations. The only thing the youth are to bring to the event is a cardboard box (refrigerator-size) to sleep in. Upon arriving, each would be given monopoly money (not equal amounts) in exchange for the donations they raised. This money could then be spent on soup, coats, beverage, etc. (comparable items a homeless person would need using monies they've have found or been given).
Then several fires would be lit in 55-gallon barrels in the church parking lot for warmth and the youth would set-up their box for the night. The following morning would close with a message of God's love for everyone and His compassion to reach those in need. All donations and monies raised would be given to a local homeless shelter and if possible, we would have the kids work there on the closing day of the event.
This event had so much impact on the church congregation that even the elders of the church came out to spend the night in support of the youth and the cause.
Steven Cree, Youth Director, Calvary Gospel Church, Helmetta, NJ
Monica
October 18, 2013 at 12:00 amI love this but is it for only the congregation or can actual homeless people come??
Phyllis
March 18, 2015 at 12:00 amI would like to talk to someone in greater detail about hosting a cardboard city. Is anyone one available to speak with?