Seven students from the Sprott School of Business are forgoing the comfort of their bedrooms to become homeless for five days in support of 5 Days for the Homeless.
Founded at the University of Alberta’s School of Business in 2005, 5 Days for the Homeless is a national campaign that raises money for Operation Come Home, a support centre for youth at risk.
The students will be sleeping outside the Unicentre from March 8-13 with nothing but sleeping bags and cardboard to keep them warm. They will be relying on meals donated by their classmates and are not allowed to use technology, such as laptops and cellphones, except when they’re in class.
Jamie Downs, a first-year international business student, only brought clothes and a toothbrush with her.
“We are relying on the kindness of others,” Down said. “I find we are so fortunate to be here. While we have food and shelter, not everybody is lucky enough to have a home to go to at the end of the day. Homelessness is so largely under-acknowledged.”
Liz Dufresne, a second-year accounting student agreed, and said she got involved because the cause isn’t only important, it’s also local.
“As a developed country, homelessness is overlooked in Canada. It’s important to donate locally and help support those who can’t support themselves,” Dufrense said.
While the students have a fundraising goal of $10,000, the students are also accepting donations of books, clothing, and non-perishable food items.
A visit from Mayor Jim Watson has been cancelled due to his pelvic injury, but radio station Jump 106.1 will also be visiting the campus on March 11 from 11:45 a.m.-2 p.m. to raise attention on the campaign.
Adam Lopez, a second-year commerce student specializing in supply chain management, participated in 5 Days for the Homeless last year, and is returning as the team captain.
“I decided to come back because it’s an easy way for a small group of people to raise money for a great cause. It’s a good way to develop a sense of humility,” Lopez said. “It gives you a perspective from the other side of things. It’s a lot harder from a mental aspect, because in five days we’re out of this situation, but other people don’t have the same safeguard.”
Lopez said the campaign does not have many corporate sponsorships, while other universities receive large donations before their campaigns begin.
“An important part of business is being aware of the social repercussions of your actions,” Lopez said.
The campaign ends March 13.
