Hackney heroine encourages scores of teenagers to sleep out in the freezing weather
Hackney heroine Pauline Pearce told over 100 teenagers they can make their dreams happen if they focus and believe, as they braved near freezing conditions to sleep out in open air to raise awareness of homelessness.
The 16-18 year olds made shelters outside the West Reservoir Sports Centre in Stoke Newington as part of The Challenge Network’s Big Sleep Out, a nationwide event taking place in 13 other locations.
The organisation runs life-skills workshops and volunteering opportunities inspiring young people to connect with their communities.
Working with London homelessness charity SHP, youngsters were educated on the causes of homelessness, the dangers of living on the street and the impact of unstable housing.
Pearce, 46, who became an internet sensation during last year’s the riots when she waved her walking stick at youths and told them they made her ashamed to come from Hackney, came along to encourage the youngsters.
You may also want to watch:
“For me it’s important to remind them of their dreams and aspirations and what a vital role they play in society,” she said.
“Focus and believe. If you believe and focus on your dreams you can make them happen,” she told them.
Most Read
- 1 New Aldi opens with help from Hackney pupils and Olympian
- 2 Panel finds gross misconduct proven against Pc arrested on suspicion of drug dealing
- 3 Five reasons why Dalston is one of the coolest places in the world
- 4 ‘People hit the deck’ - Londoners stunned by fighter jet flyover
- 5 Two taken to hospital and driver arrested after car flips in Hackney
- 6 Planet Organic to open in Broadway Market despite thousands of signatures in protest
- 7 Aldi Local to open in Dalston next month
- 8 TfL told to introduce 'pay per mile' charge to motorists
- 9 Woman battered Hackney Wetherspoons with axe as customers hid inside
- 10 Police officers save lives in two sperate emergencies on same shift
“Giving back to your community is being you. My advice would be to find out what you’re passionate about,” she added.
The young people have set �1,000 fundraising target, which will benefit SHP’s welfare fund, supporting clients in emergency situations when they may be without food or clothing.
To donate go to https://www.justgiving.com/the-big-challenge-sleepout
