(Photo by Ashley Antonini/WJBC)
By Ashley Antonini
BLOOMINGTON – A local organization hosted an unconventional “sleep-over” Friday night, all to raise awareness for a good cause.
Home Street Home Ministries hosted its second annual “Night In a Car Event.” The events goals was to raise money, awareness, and extend community outreach to the homeless in the Bloomington-Normal community.
People from all walks of life gathered at Trinity Lutheran Church to put themselves in someone else’s shoes. Starting in the church, the hosts of the event offered background information on what it is like to be homeless in the Twin Cities. They also challenged those in attendance to place themselves in an actual scenario as a way to further their understanding of the hardships those affected by homelessness face. After, they dispersed to their cars.
Among the many at the event were father and son, Blake and Pierce Vroomen. Blake wanted to teach his son the importance not only giving back to the community, but learning a life lesson as well.
“It’s an education standpoint to understand that as he grows up and moves foreword, you constantly have to be aware of things around you and some things might not be your fault” said Vroomen.
Pierce, his son, agreed. He was excited to raise awareness…and to have a new headquarters for the night.
His father, Blake, added that change in the community can be as simple as altering your perception.
“If you look around and question ‘Why is it like that?’ You might see the reason why they’re there. Just open your eyes, you’ll notice it around you” Vroomen added.
As of 7:30 pm Friday, the event raised nearly $38,000. That number was likely to increase as the night went on.
Shelter, refreshments, and bathrooms were available to the participants throughout the night. Home Sweet Home Ministries stressed that the event was a ultimately a simulation, offering just a glimpse of what it is like to legitimately live in a car.
Ashley Antonini can be reached at ashley.antonini@cumulus.com
