Registrations begins now and through July 6

BUFFALO, N.Y. - Hundreds of Western New Yorkers will converge on the University of Buffalo's North Campus UB Stadium on Friday, July 13, as the Buffalo City Mission hosts its first annual Great Sleep Out for the Homeless. The Mission is encouraging college students, adults, families and church youth groups to register now through July 6 for the event. More information is available by visiting www.buffalocitymission.org or calling Aubrey Calhoun at (716) 348-3101.

The Great Sleep Out provides a forum for adults, families and youth in grade seven through sophomore year in college to learn about the root causes of homelessness, how to make good life choices, and how to make a difference in their communities. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. and lasts until 8:30 a.m. the following morning, and features well renowned guest speaker Mark Cahill, live music, activities throughout the night, an awards breakfast in the morning and more. Awards will be handed out for fundraising/community service efforts and sleep shelter design.

The Buffalo City Mission, founded in 1917, is a not-for-profit organization that provides preventative, emergency and long-term recovery services to thousands of people who are homeless or impoverished. The Mission includes: Women and Children's Shelter (Cornerstone Manor); the Men's Center; the Mission Motors Vehicle Donation Program; and Second Chances Thrift Store. For more information, please visit www.buffalocitymission.org or 854-8181.