Day 3

Kayla - "Day three has come to an end and what a day/ night it has been. Yesterday we spent most of our time on Water Street. The public has been amazing thus far and I'm not sure if they realize how much of an impact they have on us as a group and even the actual homeless. We have been getting a great response in regards to raising money and food donations, even positive words. What a great feeling you get when people walk by and tell you what a great job you're doing and praise us on being brave. Thank you for that!

We were invited to City Hall by the Mayor. We had lunch and got to talk for a while. Mayor O'Keefe even let us into council chambers. It was quite exciting for me. haha (see picture below) I even got to sit in the chair.

Last night Sleep Out held it's Midweek Event. The Midweek Event for me is such a boost and I've been very thankful for the time spent with family and friends. We had some special moments along with some funny ones. I find no matter how we feel at the Midweek Event the next day is always so hard. I left last night feeling positive; much better than last year. So I assumed the night would go off without a hitch and Thursday would be good. HA! That didn't turn out so well once we got to 'bed'. My night didn't turn out to be as positive as I had hoped, therefore making Thursday a not so positive morning. I always find Thursday to be a little more difficult than any other day.

I'm mentally and emotionally exhausted and could really use a good nap.

We are almost there and the difference we are making is huge. Even if it's something little, they all add up to be something big.

"Even the weak become strong when they are united"

PS. Happy Birthday to my amazing Sister, Krista! Love you, hope you have a super day! XOXOXO

Nikita- "Last night was the first night I was afraid in 3 years I have been involved in Sleep Out. I just want some good food and bed.

Lots of love, Nikita

Adam- "Good day St. John's. I want to send a thank you out to Mayor O'Keefe for his support and coming down and inviting us for lunch in his office.

The weather yesterday was a little wet but we were able to stay dry by standing under an overhang. However, I can't imagine doing this day after day with no end in sight. I'ts been a very challenging and cold experience, but the community support, stories of the people on the streets, make the experience worth while.

I don't know what else to write. I'm so tired right now."

Renee- "I am in really good spirits this morning. Yesterday was filled with lots of happiness. It started off with a visit from my mom, sister and Heather. She bought up some somosas and rice which made Sana's day. The Mayor dropped down next and invited us up to City Hall for a pizza lunch. It felt so amazing to walk around on soft floor in our socks.

Yesterday was 'change our clothes day'! That felt so nice!! We went to the midweek event and it was extremely uplifting. We heard the Stella's Circle Inclusion Choir preform, and I got a great piece of art, which was done by a youth. My mom, sister, Angelina and Heather, and her mom and brother came to see me. Feeling all of the love was amazing.

We have broke the half way point now and it will be no time until I am seeing Leonard Cohen. This experience has been life changing already.

Kathryn (Ground Leader)- "Wednesday was great! we had the mayor come down and visit us. He then invited us to his office for lunch! It was really good! It rained for a bit but we had shelter. Had the midweek event. Had a lot of support and it was great to see a lot of past participants. Nothing else to report today."

Lacey- "Good morning world! Three cold nights, a lovely midweek event, and a medical exam down - just two night to go now and I feel good. It has been an amazing but challenging week so far. No matter how much time you spend mentally preparing for sleeping on the streets, you have to do it to find out just how cold the concrete is and what it feels like to have no roof over your head in -8 degree weather. Last night I slept for the first time in a couple of days and this morning I woke up refreshed, recharged and feeling happy that I am here! One of things which has struck me the most doing this campaign is the wonderful support we have received from the community!

Because I am a med student I have been back and forth to classes and exams at the hospital each day, and my collegues have been showing me so much care and concern. I couldn't ask for better friends. The support and donations from the medical community has really gave me a sense of purpose, knowing I have raised enough funds to really make a difference for all the beneficiaries. Thanks guys!

Special thanks to Steph, Stephen and Rene for being my rock and Same for coming out to midweek! OK, that's all for now, I'm going to be late for my hypertension tutorial. Much love, Lacey!