Alex Cowell
Big City Sleepout 2023
Fundraising for The Clock Tower Sanctuary
Story
Why I’m sleeping out on Brighton Seafront on 4th December
Hello, everyone,
I'm Alex, and I’ve called Brighton my home for over 20 years. For all its beauty, this city also holds a distressing truth — Brighton & Hove has the second-highest levels of homelessness outside of London, with 3,700 people living without a home (Shelter-2021). The post-Covid era has only magnified this issue, particularly among the young.
That's why on 4th December, I'm joining the Big City Sleepout 2023 to raise funds for the Clock Tower Sanctuary who support 16-25 years olds in need.
The thought that someone as young as my own 16-year-old son could be without shelter or support is almost unconscionable. Yet, for too many in our community, this is a daily struggle.
I'll be spending a night out in the cold on Brighton seafront—not just to raise funds but to stand in solidarity with the vulnerable young people who face this as their reality.
It's likely to be a freezing, uncomfortable night. But it's just one night for me, while for others, it's a never-ending cycle of uncertainty, vulnerability, and fear.
Why the Clock Tower Sanctuary is so important
The Clock Tower Sanctuary is the only drop-in day centre in Brighton & Hove for 16-to-25 year olds who are experiencing homelessness. They provide practical and emotional support to help young people to move from crisis to stability.
Last year alone, they welcomed 2,912 visits from young individuals who had nowhere else to turn. They offer not just necessities like hot meals, showers, and laundry, but also daily classes and activities that foster growth and community.
The challenge it faces this Christmas
The holiday season reminds us of warmth, comfort, and joy. Yet, for The Clock Tower Sanctuary, it brings a steep challenge.
With rising costs and inflation, they need to raise £20,413 just to run the drop-in centre during the lead up to Christmas.
Your donation, whatever you can afford, can make a monumental difference. It's not just a gift of money; it's about sending a message that no young person is forgotten, especially during the festive season.
The difference we make
Harry, 22, who benefited from CTS, puts it eloquently:
“Most importantly for me, CTS is a safe space where you can go, where you can get some food, get some help with housing, or if you need to clean up you can have a shower. It's a community for people in similar situations. I've never experienced that before in my life.”
Please help!
Please, join me in this cause. Together, we can ensure that the Clock Tower Sanctuary continues to be a sanctuary of hope and progress for young people in desperate need.
With heartfelt thanks,
Alex