The Observer, September 29, 2006
Volume XXXIX, Issue 5
Students shack up tonight to help homeless
What do cardboard boxes, grass, and homeless people have in common?
They are all essential elements of "Let's Shack Up," the annual fundraiser sponsored by the campus group Habitat for Humanity.
Tonight students will spend the night in cardboard boxes on the KSL oval.
The purpose of the event is to build awareness of homelessness in Cleveland and an appreciation of what it is like to sleep outside, according to Habitat for Humanity president David Poerschke.
It seems that the purpose of the event has been served.
"It gave me a much better appreciation for being under a warm roof," said junior Ramya Keshavaram, who participated during her freshman year. "It made me more grateful for the things I do have."
Senior Elyse Moretti supports the cause as well. "It's for a great cause, and although it's only for one night, it really makes people think about situations when you are without shelter."
The popularity of the event stems in part from the great experiences had by attendees and the excellent word-of-mouth that comes from that.
"I've never participated in 'Let's Shack Up' before," said sophomore Michelle Cehn. "But due to the constant reminders of Lisa Voight, I will surely be attending on Friday."
In order for participants to have a greater awareness of the issue, Habitat for Humanity has in the past invited a speaker to discuss homelessness and the state of homelessness in the city of Cleveland.
Participants are asked to recruit family, friends, faculty, etc. to sponsor them to raise donations. Students are asked, but not required, to donate $25 per person, or $150 for campus organizations participating as a group.
All proceeds from the event will be used to support the construction of homes through the Greater Cleveland chapter of Habitat for Humanity.
During the night, there will a sponsored cardboard "house" decorating contest, where individual participants or groups decorate makeshift "houses" with supplied paint and other accessories.
The best decorated "houses" will receive a special "luxury" for the evening. To help keep participants warm and full, there will be a barrel fire, s'mores, and hot chocolate.
