The Clayton End at the Wham Stadium became a sea of sleeping bags and community spirit on Friday, 10th October, as 30 people took part in the Stadium Sleepout, raising vital funds for Accrington Stanley Community Trust and East Lancashire Hospice.
The unique fundraising event saw participants give up the comfort of their beds for one night, sleeping outdoors at the home of Accrington Stanley Football Club to show solidarity to support two organisations making a difference across Hyndburn and East Lancashire.
Donations are still coming in from the event and will make a huge difference to the two charities. All proceeds will be split between the two charities to fund local community projects and compassionate hospice care.
“The Stadium Sleepout is a powerful reminder of what our community can achieve when we come together,”
said Joanna Williams, Partnerships & Fundraising Manager of Accrington Stanley Community Trust.
“Sleeping out in the cold for one night doesn’t replicate the real challenges people face, but it builds empathy, awareness, and crucial funds that help us continue our work with those who need it most.”
Participants were treated to an evening of entertainment, including a quiz hosted by East Lancashire Hospice staff member Ian Fox, and a hot supper before bedding down on the stadium concourse. The event attracted a mix of local Stanley fans and supporters of both charities, each playing a part in raising awareness and much-needed donations.
Lia Holmes, Events Fundraiser at East Lancashire Hospice, added:
“We’re so grateful for the incredible support from everyone who took part. The money raised will help us continue to provide specialist, compassionate care to local people and their families when they need it most.”
The Stadium Sleepout was made possible thanks to the support of hosts Accrington Stanley Football Club, Event Sponsor- Prestige Beds and The Cardboard Box Company, whose generosity ensured every penny raised went directly to the two charities’ causes.
Accrington Stanley Community Trust delivers health, education, and inclusion projects that change lives across Hyndburn and beyond, while East Lancashire Hospice provides free, specialist care for people with life-limiting illnesses and their families.
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