At-Home Sleep Out

Part 1: The Program

Our virtual program is available. You can use the YouTube comments section to share your reactions!

When the program concludes, continue to Part 2 where you can find more activities and stories.

Part 2: Activities & Stories

If you'd like to add more to your night before or after watching the virtual program, select one (or more!) of the activities below. Each activity can be done on your own or with a group and are appropriate for all ages. Click the link to download or view instructions.

losing your sense of self

Put yourself in the shoes of a young person facing homelessness before they arrive at Covenant House.

Materials: each participant should have three Post-It notes or pieces of paper and something to write with. You can download and print the instructions or follow along with this video.

Your Bed is Not an Option

Hold yourself accountable to an uncomfortable night's sleep with this activity.

Materials: not required.

carlos' Story

Watch Carlos' story and use the accompanying questions to start a conversation with your group or guide your own reflections.

Materials: not required.

JEREMIAH'S STORY: WATCH & DISCUSS

Watch Jeremiah's story and use the accompanying questions to start a conversation with your group or guide your own reflections.

Materials: not required.

PACK A WELCOME KIT

Provide welcome kits of personal hygiene products to young people who have just arrived at Covenant House.

Materials: download and review the guide for a complete list of materials.
Part 3: Sleep Out

It's time to Sleep Out! Remember, you should only sleep somewhere safe and legal. It can be anywhere: a yard, garage, porch, terrace, or floor are all great options. The important piece is thinking about what comforts you will give up for the night. Your bed, of course, but also consider going without a pillow or blanket, comfy pajamas, or your usual nighttime rituals.

As you settle in for the night, be sure to snap a couple photos and tag them on social media with #chsleepout so we can wish you well. Our team would love to hear from you, too, with photos and reflections on your Sleep Out. Send them to us at [email protected].

Part 4: Morning Reflections

When you wake up, take time to reflect on your Sleep Out before starting your day. Our live morning reflection room will open at 8am ET/5am PT on Monday, August 21, 2023, so you can talk through your experience with fellow Sleepers.

You will need your camera and microphone to fully participate.

Can't join us live? Download our morning reflection guide for prompts, and share your thoughts with your donors and on social media using the hashtag #chsleepout.

Our team would love to hear from you, too! Send reflections and photos to [email protected].