Sleep Out participants have the option to participate in person or through our interactive virtual program.

Participants sleeping out in person must:

• Be at least 21 years of age
• Be committed to the mission and spirit of this event; and 
• Raise at least $1,000 (suggested $2,000 goal) in support of youth facing homelessness using the online portal provided.   
• Show proof of COVID-19 vaccine OR negative PCR or Antigen test results within 72 hours

Participants sleeping out virtually must:

• Be at least 18 years of age, or under 18 years of age with permission from their parent/guardian
• Be committed to the mission and spirit of this event; and 
• Raise at least $500 (suggested $1,000 goal) in support of youth facing homelessness using the online portal provided.  

Sleepers are expected to approach the event with an open heart, an open mind, and a willingness to work hard for something outside of your comfort zone. All participants are required to fundraise before the event, but you’re not on your own. Our team provides a personal webpage and all the coaching, materials, and support you need to help you reach your goal.

The Sleep Out is a unique experience that we hope encourages awareness, empathy, and understanding for the immeasurable odds faced by youth overcoming homelessness. But while awareness of a problem is important, it isn’t a solution.

We ask Sleep Out participants to raise critical funds that allow Covenant House to offer safety, shelter, and support to young people 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.  By fundraising, Sleep Out participants become part of the solution for young people facing homelessness.

In 2021, you have the option to participate either in-person or virtually. Sleepers joining our event virtually are encouraged to set a goal of $1,000 ($500 minimum). In-person sleepers are encouraged to set a goal of $2,000 ($1,000 minimum). We know you can do it - our sleepers raised an average of $3,000 last year! Getting started is as easy as sending an email - and our team is available every step of the way to help.

Safety is our first and foremost concern - particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic - whether it is for the young people we serve or for our participants. We pledge that we take all necessary precautions to ensure you are safe at the Sleep Out. We will have four police officers on location from 6:00 pm-7:00 am. All Sleepers must present proof of vaccine OR a negative PCR or Antigen test results within 72 hours.

This year’s event will feature both in-person and virtual options for participation. The funds raised by our Sleepers will help ensure that our young people have the support they need to overcome homelessness.

The safety of our youth and Sleepers is our #1 priority. Those who participate virtually will be included in all aspects of our immersive and rewarding program—from the sanctuary of their living rooms or backyards (we encourage you to be creative!). In accordance with the City's policies, in-person sleepers must provide proof of at least one dose of an approved COVID vaccine or negative PCR test administered within 72 hours of entry. All participants will be asked to wear masks covering their noses and mouths for the duration of the event (except when eating, drinking, or sleeping).

Please note the fundraising minimums for both virtual and in-person Sleepers. Those sleeping out on their own are welcome to share the experience with others, but all registered participants are asked to commit to raising critical dollars for our youth.

Our Sleep Out programing will be designed in accordance with CDC and City safety guidelines. Safety measures will be subject to change as we receive updated guidance. Any changes or adjustments will be communicated clearly with Sleepers to ensure everyone's safety and comfort. All Sleepers must present proof of vaccine OR a negative PCR or Antigen test results within 72 hours.

Yes, so long as they meet the eligibility requirements listed above and register for the event in advance. If you want, you can even create a team page and invite friends, family, and co-workers to join (all attendees must be registered and all participants are asked to meet the same fundraising requirements).

We suggest you bring weather-appropriate clothing layers, personal toiletries and medications, and a smartphone (if you use one). Please also bring a sleeping bag from home (we will have extras available)

Please refrain from bringing any luxury bedding items, pillows, airbeds, mattresses, etc. as we expect you to sleep rough for one night in solidarity for our youth. We do not recommend that you sleep outside with any valuable items. We also ask that you refrain from bringing alcohol; Sleep Out is always a dry event.