By KLTV Newsdesk –

A Night to Remember for a Great Cause

After a year’s hiatus, it’s time for the return of Huddersfield Town Foundation’s Big Sleep Out fundraiser! The much-anticipated event is set to take place on Friday, 28 March at the John Smith’s Stadium.

Over the past eight years, the Big Sleep Out has raised an impressive £170,000.

This year, funds raised will support local charity The Welcome Centre, one of the largest independent food banks in the UK, as well as the Foundation’s Breakfast Clubs programme, which has been serving healthy breakfasts to children across Kirklees, helping them to start their school day on the right foot.

Since its inception, the Breakfast Clubs programme has provided over 2.5 million breakfasts.

Fighting Poverty in the Community

Fraser Clark, Head of Finance & Compliance at the Huddersfield Town Foundation, expressed his excitement for the event’s return: “After a year away, we are really pleased to be bringing back our Big Sleep Out fundraiser.

“The money raised over the years has provided much-needed funds for a variety of great causes that help battle poverty in and around the Kirklees area, along with our breakfast club programme which has continued to provide children who need it most with a healthy breakfast before their school day.

“We have seen, with the rising cost of living, how more and more people are requiring support, and we are really proud to be partnering with The Welcome Centre, who are a charity providing such vital support.”

The Welcome Centre’s Vital Work

Charlie Taylor, Fundraising Manager at The Welcome Centre, highlighted the ongoing challenges facing the local community: “Last year alone, The Welcome Centre provided over 386,000 meals to people in Huddersfield facing food crises.

“It’s a staggering number, but it reflects the real challenges many individuals and families in our community are facing. But we’re more than just a food bank. Every person who receives a food pack is also offered tailored support through our in-house advice, guidance, and support service.

“Our mission is to address the root causes that bring people to us and work toward sustainable solutions, so they can regain control over their lives.

“None of this would be possible without the incredible support of our team of 146 volunteers. With your fundraising support, we can continue offering these vital services so that we can provide food and solutions to those who need it most.”

An Eye-Opening Experience

Participants will spend the night in the Chadwick Lawrence stand at the John Smith’s Stadium, either in the concourse or with a view of the pitch, and will be kept warm with hot drinks and snacks throughout the night. The event concludes at 7am the following morning, giving participants the chance to reflect on their experience.

While it’s only one night, the aim is to give attendees a glimpse into the struggles faced by homeless individuals on a daily basis.