Event To Simulate Homelessness For Participants

LEXINGTON, Ky. - The problem of homelessness in Lexington grabbed headlines back in July when Mayor Jim Gray announced plans to form a Homelessness Commission. Students and other volunteers are hoping to keep the issue front and center this week.

The Center for Community Outreach is sponsoring a series of events that run through Friday marking Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, including an Oxfam Banquet Monday night, a documentary screening Wednesday, and a cardboard village Friday. Brock Mead with STAG, Students Taking Action Globally, says those taking part will spend the night with only a sleeping bag, pillow, blankets, and their cardboard shelter.

"It's important to experience these sorts of things first hand, and it definitely gives you a different account of what it's like to be homeless and why homelessness exists," Mead says.

More information and registration for the events can be found at tinyurl.com/hungerandhomelessness.

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