Camp Unity Eastside’s annual GiveBIG campaign has begun! Several board members and other volunteers have posted fundraising campaigns for Camp Unity so that we can continue to provide shelter and support for those experiencing homelessness.
So far, GiveBIG FUNdraisers for Camp Unity include those created by: Ann Taylor, Alana McWade, Audrey Tsai, Karl Brackmann, Kris Neese, Michael Rader, and Mark Van Wormer. Recognize a name? Click on it to donate via their campaign in support of Camp Unity. Some FUNdraisers are being matched to raise additional funds and help your donation go further!
We’ve received generous support in the past and hope you will continue to contribute to Camp Unity’s mission through a gift today. Any amount will make a difference in providing safe and supportive shelter and a better future for those without homes and working to regain stability. The last day to make a financial gift is May 5th!
To help describe Camp Unity’s impact for people experiencing homelessness, we asked Camp Unity’s generous hosts to share their view.
Pastor Anja Helmon of Northlake Lutheran Church shared that Camp Unity not only offers a safe place to sleep, but also a community that those experiencing homelessness can be a part of. She has recommended Camp Unity to people struggling with homelessness, describing that it can be very lonely on the streets, feeling that no one cares, and that you need to watch out for yourself every second of every day. She’s seen those who have gone through something similar, come together at Camp Unity. She reflected that because residents at CUE can understand each other’s situation better than any of us with housing can understand it, Camp Unity is a mental health option in addition to simply a place to sleep.
Pastor Ryan Lambert of Kirkland Congregational United Church of Christ offered another valuable perspective on Camp Unity’s impact. He shared that while community shelters are incredibly important to houseless people, opening and closing times for shelters can make it hard for individuals to access services. Camp Unity provides a stable environment for individuals, and allows them to stay for a short time or a longer duration while they get access to services that may help their situation. Additionally, each tent allows individuals to retain their own space but still be a part of a community.
Linda Alexander, chairperson of the Ministry of Justice and Outreach at Northshore United Church of Christ, echoed similar sentiments on the importance of the community. She shared that Camp Unity is an opportunity for those without homes to be in a self-governing community with basic needs met so they are able to work and have access to resources to help in finding affordable housing. Each person takes part in keeping the camp safe and clean with tasks such as security, sanitizing surfaces, or phone shifts. Linda reflected that CUE is a reminder that any of us could find ourselves in a situation where due to unforeseen circumstances we might not be able to afford to keep our home or rent an apartment.
Your gift during GiveBIG is key to helping Camp Unity continue to provide this special and supportive community for those in need. Last year, 13 people moved from Camp Unity to housing. This year, we hope you will consider joining us in fulfilling priority needs, which include:
- Essential services including portable toilets and waste management
- Camp equipment and supplies such as sleeping bags and replacement of worn-out appliances
- Camp moves 3 to 4 times per year
- Camp van used to provide transportationfor residents for medical needs, appointments, work and other destinations
- Assistance for current or prospective hosts who do not have the financial capacity to pay for water, electricity, or other expenses associated with hosting
Thank you in advance for your generosity during GiveBIG.
Lori Peckol, volunteer
Friends of Camp Unity Eastside