A total of 165 brave supporters spent a memorable night under the stars for Everton in the Community’s inaugural Stadium Sleepout, hosted for the very first time at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Participants were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime experience as they bedded down at the Blues’ new home, with every penny raised supporting the charity’s Home Is Where The Heart Is (HIWTHI) programme, which provides vital help to vulnerable young people at risk of homelessness.
The evening began with a moving Q&A featuring former HIWTHI residents Zahraa and Moyaed, who spoke candidly about how the programme has transformed their lives. Guests also heard from EitC CEO Sue Gregory, who shared her heartfelt thanks and underlined the importance of events like the Sleepout in sustaining the charity’s life-changing work.
As the night went on, supporters set up their sleeping spaces on the concourse and visited EitC’s One Stop Shop to learn more about the charity’s wide range of community programmes. A warm evening snack and hearty breakfast were kindly provided by Aramark, helping keep spirits high throughout the night.
A special thank you also goes to Castore, the Club’s official kit supplier, who generously donated 200 training tops for participants to take home as a souvenir.
Reflecting on the success of the event, EitC CEO Sue Gregory, said:
“Our first Stadium Sleepout at the new ground marks a truly special milestone for Everton in the Community.
“It was inspiring to see so many supporters come together, braving the cold night to stand in solidarity with young people facing homelessness.
“Nights like this remind us of what makes the Everton Family so unique – compassion, unity and an unwavering commitment to our community.”
EitC’s first Stadium Sleepout at the new ground marks a significant moment in the charity’s history. While the Club begins a new chapter at its new home, Everton in the Community remains deeply rooted in the heart of L4, continuing to build on Everton’s proud legacy of community spirit and support for local people.
Those still wishing to contribute to the Stadium Sleepout fundraising efforts can do so via the official JustGiving page here.
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