Brummies camp out in support of homeless charity

Homeless charity SIFA Fireside has raised more than £4,500 through its 'BIG Brummie Camp Out ' event which took place earlier in May.

The BIG Brummie Camp Out saw 250 people pitch their tents and camp out to raise funds for the Digbeth-based charity.

The annual event brought families, friends, students and colleagues together who spent a night under the stars in their own homes in support of Birmingham 's main day centre for vulnerable and homeless adults, SIFA Fireside.

Local organisations and businesses also joined forces in support of the charity, contributing to the exclusive camper 's activity pack.

For a minimum of a £5 donation, campers received recipes from restaurants, such as award-winning Carters of Moseley and OPUS, plus activities from ThinkTank Birmingham, and established 'Brummie ' brand Punks & Chancers.

The event also included live entertainment from Birmingham 's Poet Laureate, Casey Bailey and finished with local nightclub The Night Owl 's DJ set.

So far, more than £4,500 has been raised and donations are still being received by the charity.

Carly Jones, SIFA Fireside CEO, said: “Last year the BIG Brummie Campout was about SIFA Fireside surviving and providing hope during a very tough year for us all.

“This year, we focused on not only celebrating SIFA Fireside but also our amazing city and the fantastic independent businesses and creative communities that surround us and support us each year.

“Money raised enables us to continue our vital services and as the restrictions continue to ease, we 're able to do even more with our clients to support their journey working towards a brighter future.

“We have been overwhelmed by the support, of not only individuals who took part in the Big Brummie Campout, but from many local businesses that came together in support. ”

SIFA Fireside works to provide long term solutions for vulnerable adults; responding to individuals in crisis, standing by them in their recovery and working to prevent homelessness within Birmingham.

The number of individuals requiring help has risen due to the Covid-19 pandemic and donations are now needed more than ever to help keep SIFA Fireside 's doors open.

For more information about SIFA Fireside and how you can get involved, click here.