Bags in Bulk-Combatting the Cold

Hello, my name is Luke Acuna, I am a rising senior at Watertown High School in Connecticut, and I’d appreciate a moment of your time. Are you aware that the homeless population in CT is 2,905? This number has escalated with post-pandemic economic challenges and inflation. Even though available data shows that 40% of homeless persons are employed, housing instability and lack of resources remain a problem. This is particularly concerning in an area like CT with harsh winters. It is reported that nationwide, a total of 700 homeless people die per year due to hypothermia. This number is alarming, and I’d like to change it.

Not long ago, my little brother expressed to me his sympathy for those who are unsheltered during the winter while we are warm indoors, and has asked repeatedly for a way to help. His condoling personality and insistence on a way to intervene inspired me to take initiative, yet at the time I was unsure how I could make a difference. However, now, as a senior, I am required to complete a Capstone project of my choosing. This school project has provided me with an outlet and motivation for philanthropic efforts and finding a way to make a difference.

I have centered my project around support for the unsheltered homeless, with the primary goal of making Winters more bearable and reducing cold-associated harm. To achieve this goal, I plan on purchasing sleeping bags in bulk for distribution to the homeless throughout CT. However, to execute this plan, I need help.

I originally needed a way to ensure that my sleeping bags would safely reach those in need, but I have solved this problem by partnering with Wheeler Clinic and Hartford police officer Jim Barrett. Wheeler Clinic is a community health center in CT with outpatient behavioral health and medical locations in Bristol, Hartford, Plainville, New Britain, and Waterbury. Wheeler serves a disproportionately higher percentage of homeless persons than the state average and has agreed to help by distributing the sleeping bags that I purchase throughout the state. Officer Barrett specializes in homeless outreach and interacts with countless unsheltered individuals daily. He will also receive a donation of sleeping bags and distribute them to those in need. Through both of these partnerships, lives will be saved.

With a plan in place, a large obstacle remains; Money. I will not be able to purchase enough sleeping bags to make a considerable donation without your help. My goal is to raise $2000. With this amount, I can afford 140 high-grade sleeping bags that can withstand the unforgiving winter weather of CT. Please consider donating; anything is greatly appreciated.

Lastly, remember that while we can enjoy the warmth of our homes during the winter, people are suffering in local communities. I may not be able to solve the complicated problem of homelessness, but something as simple as a sleeping bag can make a big difference.