Quantcast

The DNAinfo archives brought to you by WNYC.
Read the press release here.

Outdoor 'Sleep-Out' Seeks To Draw Attention to Youth Homelessness

By Josh McGhee | November 19, 2015 5:28am
 Homeless people in Uptown have clashed with police and city officials. Advocates aim to raise awareness for their fight.
Homeless people in Uptown have clashed with police and city officials. Advocates aim to raise awareness for their fight.
View Full Caption
DNAinfo/Josh McGhee

UPTOWN — Activists will spend a night at Cricket Hill near Montrose Beach in Uptown to bring attention to youth homelessness this weekend.

From 6 p.m. Friday to 8 a.m. Saturday, homeless advocates with Out in the Open will host their first "sleep-out" to raise funds for more than 18 not-for-profit organizations.

"This all-night charity event will raise awareness and funds for local nonprofits on the front lines — and celebrate the survival and spirit of real teens," according to the website for the event.

In August, activists and police clashed at a similar "Tent City" event aimed at bringing attention to those displaced in the neighborhood.

Also this summer, homeless living under a viaduct were cleared from the area before a Mumford and Sons show at Cricket Hill.

The Out in the Open Sleep-Out specifically targets homeless youths and will feature a DJ at 6 p.m.,  followed by a performance from the Chicago Spirit Brigade and a stage program from 7-10 p.m. A short stage program will begin at 6 a.m. Saturday.

Those interested in participating can register Friday for $85, which goes to the nonprofit of your choice.

"Youth homelessness can seem like an invisible problem. But for more than 22,000 young adults in our own city, it's all too real," the website said. "From all walks of life, let's unite to wake up in Chicago. For one night, we won't close our eyes."

Participants are told to bring lots of clothes to layer, extra socks, a heavy winter coat, hats, gloves and a small personal tent. (Coincidentally, the usage of tents by the homeless in the area has been scrutinized.) Liquor, kerosene or propane heaters, weapons and animals will not be allowed.

Ald. James Cappleman (46th) is listed as a partner and a speaker for the event, along with All Chicago, Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, the Chicago Department of Public Health and Moxie, among others. Cappleman has been under fire from homeless activists in the area recently for his treatment of the homeless under the viaducts.

For more neighborhood news, listen to DNAinfo Radio here: