A Way Home Kamloops is hosting another virtual Campout to End Youth Homelessness in December.

It will be the fifth edition of the annual fundraiser for the organization which aims to eliminate youth homelessness in Kamloops by providing young people with housing and supports they need.

Programs Manager Kira Cheeseborough says the goal is to raise $250,000 for the Youth Housing First program as well as for programming at Katherine’s Place – a 24/7 supportive building with 39 units for youth between the age of 19 and 26 who are at-risk of or experiencing homelessness.

“As this year marks both our fifth Campout and the one-year passing of [founder] Katherine [McParland], we are planning some very special presentations in her memory,” she said. “We also know that joining from home isn’t quite the same as being altogether in a park, so we’re putting extra consideration into fun activities and virtual ‘campfires’ for attendees this year.”

Last year’s Campout broke fundraising records by raising $150,000. Of that, A Way Home Kamloops says $97,000 has been put into reserve for future programming at Katherine’s Place.

“Katherine worked tirelessly to build it and get it to where it is today,” Patti Philips, who is part of the planning committee added. “Katherine would be proud. Knowing Katherine’s Place will be coming to fruition is so heartfelt. They will be helping youth to find a safe home and work, to be productive adults in our community.”

In years past, campers have slept outside in cardboard boxes and sleeping bags while hearing stories from youth with lived expertise of homelessness. As was the case last year, campers are being encouraged to create their own version of camping at home while their join from the homes, businesses, backyards, front porches or cars.

“Homelessness can look like all of these, from couch surfing to being on the streets, so there really is no wrong way to camp out,” A Way Home Kamloops said. “The online event allows for more participants to join with greater accessibility for people with limited mobility and for young children who may not have been able to join in-person.”

“As a virtual event, campers can look forward to receiving a camper package full of items and treats for activities and ‘fireside’ stories. Lawn signs will also be available for campers next month to display in their yards.”

The 2021 edition of the Campout to End Youth Homelessness – the first without McParland at the planning table – will take place via Zoom from 6:00 p.m. on Dec. 10 to 7:00 a.m. on Dec. 11.

For more information on the Campout to End Youth Homelessness, go here. To sign-up as a camper online, go here.