On December 3, 2010, an estimated 100 community members, will give up their warm beds to gather for the second annual Night in a Box event to bring attention to the need for permanent and affordable housing and services for nearly 5,000 families who spend their lives in transition as part of Denver's "hidden homeless".The potential impact of the event isn't lost on Casey Akusis. Once a homeless mother who had a crystal meth addiction, Casey spent 14 years "couch surfing" before getting clean through a rehabilitation and transitional living program so she could establish a stable life for herself and her children. "I understand what it's like for single parents whose problems seem overwhelming. You want to get off the streets, but it can seem impossible."
Through Casey's attendance at Providence Bible Church (the church that started Encompass and the Night in a Box event) she decided to participate in the Night in a Box event by having a slumber party for a handful of kids from her church whose parents want to participate. Of her decision, Casey says, "I try to make my story a story of hope for those that are struggling to find stability. I asked myself what I could do to best support the event this year, and watching friend's kids so they could participate seemed like a good answer."
According to Jason Janz, Providence Bible Church and Encompass founder, "Within 1 mile of our location there are 5,000 single parents living in poverty. Through this event we want to bring awareness and raise money to provide services to the hidden homeless in our city. Casey went from being in despair to getting clean, working at a law firm, providing for her children and attending nursing school. Encompass wants to facilitate that transition for many more families".
Unique features of the event include the lighting of a house constructed from 5,000 Legos to represent the 5,000 families in need of permanent housing in Denver, a fatherless forum, hearing stories of single moms, a walking prayer tour and an interview with a father who left four children fatherless when he was incarcerated. Participants of all ages are welcome to join in the event as sleepers or sponsors and should contact Steve Hall at shall@encompassdenver.org or 303.995.8427 to register.
