Join Ritter Center for a Sleepout Under the Stars to End Homelessness in Marin
Did you know that many families living in Marin must choose between paying the rent and putting food on the table? With the pandemic putting a strain on our community, we are seeing even more need from our neighbors to remain housed or from those who are unhoused. One way to help children understand the complex issues surrounding homelessness and learn compassion is by participating in Ritter Center’s Under the Stars: A Sleepout to End Homelessness in Marin on Saturday, May 20, 2023. Under the Stars invites families and friends to choose an uncomfortable place to “sleep out” for just one night; floors, sofas, decks — anyplace but a warm bed — to gain an understanding of the challenges people experiencing homelessness endure, and to call for an end to homelessness in Marin.
“Choosing to sleep in an area other than your bed for one night will not remotely recreate what it is like to sleep on the streets. But it can allow for greater reflection on how and why people become homeless, the struggles they face, and how together we can help resolve homelessness with humanity,” said Ritter Center Executive Director Mark Shotwell.
For over 40 years, Ritter Center in San Rafael has provided a care and community lifeline to families, seniors, veterans, and individuals living in poverty. Ritter Center’s second annual Under the Stars sleepout aims to raise $175,000 for Ritter Center’s housing, healthcare, food, and support services that help prevent and resolve homelessness, and sustainably improve the quality of people’s lives.
This year there will be a pre-sleepout BBQ celebration, catered by Chef Jim Modesitt, at the San Rafael Elks Club Lodge on May 20 from 5–7:30 pm. Tickets start at $95 and in addition to amazing BBQ from Chef Jim there will be games, auctions, speakers, appearances by local public officials, and more. Buy your BBQ celebration tickets here.
Sign up online with your friends and family. There is a $25 fee for participants ages 6 and older. Children 5 and under are free. Learn more, donate, and register at Sleepout.RitterCenter.org.
