This March, veterans across the UK will rally for Royal British Veterans Enterprise (RBVE)’s Great Tommy Sleep Out — a national challenge to stand with fellow ex-service personnel facing homelessness.
RBVE is a charity founded in 1919 to support Britain’s bravest. Funds raised through The Great Tommy Sleep Out provide emergency homes, skilled jobs, and community care to help veterans rebuild independence. One veteran taking part is Chris Jepson from Wickersley, who will sleep out on 12th, 13th and 14th March to raise awareness and funds for RBVE’s frontline services. He will be Wild Camping on Wickersley Park for the whole of the weekend.
To sponsor Chris Jepson, visit http://www.justgiving.com/page/chris-jepson-5?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL.
The Great Tommy Sleep Out is not a simulation of homelessness, but a refusal to ignore it. One night outside creates a platform to demand better and ensures no veteran is left behind. Lisa Farmer OBE, RBVE Chief Executive, said: “The Great Tommy Sleep Out is a powerful act of solidarity. One night outside cannot mirror the trauma of life on the streets, but it shows veterans that the public refuses to ignore their struggle.
“At RBVE, we provide emergency homes, employment opportunities, and community care for those who’ve served. Thanks to the funds raised, veterans who were once street homeless can access safe shelter, welfare and healthcare support, and training to rebuild independence. “I want to thank everyone taking part this March. By braving the cold, you are not only raising vital funds but also shining a light on veteran homelessness and helping us ensure that no veteran is left behind.”
To sign up, visit https://rbve.org.uk/events/the-great-tommy-sleep-out/.