Everything you need to know about Sleep Out: Pennsylvania

Sleep Out: Young Professional Edition is going virtual! As we continue to adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have decided to merge the Sleep Out: Young Professional Edition with our other Spring Sleep Outs (Sleep Out: Women Unite and Sleep Out: Pride Edition) into one big Virtual Sleep Out on June 26th! So it’s not too late to sign up and join us and make a difference in the lives of our regions homeless youth during this time of crisis in our world.

Going virtual means that all sleepers will select a safe private place to sleep out that night (their yard, deck, balcony, or their floor). They will log into a video conference where you will hear updates from CHPA leadership, staff, and youth on how the global pandemic has changed their lives and how we serve our youth. It will also provide opportunities for all participants to engage more closely with each other and the CHPA team and give them perspective on why they are sleeping out. Please join us on June 26th and register today!

Date: June 26, 2020
Time: 8:00 PM - 8:00 AM
Location: Your home

Event Coordinator: Robert Zindell
Phone: 215-951-5411
Email: [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible to participate in the Sleep Out?
Participants in the Sleep Out: Young Professional Edition must be:

  • Between the ages of 23-45
  • Commit to raising awareness about the issue of youth homelessness
  • Strive to raise at least $1,000 in support of homeless young people leading up to the event, using the online portal provided.

What is expected of each participant?
We expect participants 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 coaching, materials, and support to help you reach your goal.

I want to Sleep Out. What’s my next step?
Register online to reserve your sleeping bag, or contact us at [email protected] or 215-951-5411

Why do I have to fundraise? And how much do I need to raise?
The Sleep Out is a unique experience that we hope encourages awareness, empathy, and understanding for the immeasurable odds that homeless young people overcome. 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 homeless 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 homeless teenagers.

For this event, we ask participants to work towards a $1,000 fundraising goal. We know you can do it - getting started is as easy as sending an email - and our team is available every step of the way to provide the tips, materials, and guidance you need to reach your goal.

Will I be safe?
Safety is our first and foremost concern, whether it is for the young people we serve or for supporters at events. We take all necessary precautions to ensure you are safe at the Sleep Out. And while the spirit of the event is to sleep outside, indoor space remains available throughout the night.

Can a friend or family member Sleep Out with me?
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 (just remember that all attendees must be registered). Please contact us at [email protected]  or 215-951-5411 with any questions.

What should I bring?
We suggest you bring weather-appropriate layers of clothing, personal toiletries and medications, and a smartphone (if you use one). We will provide a new sleeping bag to you, or you can bring your own.

What should I leave at home?
Please refrain from bringing any luxury bedding items, pillows, etc. as we expect you to sleep rough for one night in solidarity with homeless kids. 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.

I received some donations in cash and checks. What do I do with them?
You can add cash or check donations to your page through your Participant Dashboard. Once logged into your account, hover over the “Donations” icon in the black menu at the top of your screen and click the option to “Add an Offline Donation.”  Scroll down to find and complete the Offline Donation Form. Once all the information is entered (please be as complete as possible!), click the button to “Add Donation” at the bottom of the form.

Once you have entered the gift, you can either bring the donations with you to the Sleep Out or mail to our office (be sure to include your name in a note or the Memo line!):

Covenant House Pennsylvania Attn: Sleep Out
31 East Armat St, Philadelphia, PA 19144