Linn County Veteran Affairs and the Community Circle of Care holds its annual Sleep Out for the Homeless every November in Cedar Rapids as part of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.

The public is invited to participate in the Sleep Out by collecting pledges and sleeping outside in cardboard boxes to raise awareness of homelessness in Linn County and to raise money for area shelters. The public is encouraged to stop by even if they cannot stay for the entire event. 

Money raised from the Sleep Out will be distributed to Linn County homeless assistance programs, including Waypoint.

Hot soup, snacks and beverages will be donated by area businesses. Indoor restrooms, security, and family entertainment will also be provided. Cardboard will be provided to create a makeshift shelter. Sleep Out participants should dress warmly and bring their own sleeping bags or blankets.

For more information on how to participate, please contact the Linn County Veteran Affairs Office at (319) 892-5160 or veteran@linncounty.org or visit the Sleep Out website at www.sleepoutforhomeless.org.