A BUILDING materials supplier has more than tripled its fundraising target for a homeless charity during a ‘big sleep out’.

Employees from Southern Sheeting in East Grinstead slept outside in the yard to raise money for Crawley Open House and to raise awareness about the challenges faced by homeless people.

A total of ten employees, including managers, drivers, sales, administrative and yard staff, all tried to put their heads down with nothing but cardboard for a bed.

The team only had two hours of sleep as the temperature dropped to below freezing and woke up to ice on their belongings.

The company has so far raised £800 for the charity, more than triple its target of £250.

Tony Hobbs, managing director of the supplier, said: “As a business which supplies roofing materials, putting a roof over people’s heads is very close to our hearts, as is supporting a local charity which does amazing work.

“After spending the night sleeping outdoors, we all have a new understanding of how hard it is to get a good night’s sleep, which is vital to be able to cope with the challenges life throws at you.

“We’re very pleased to offer our support to Crawley Open House. We’ve always been struck by their dedication and compassion as they help residents and day-centre guests to move forward on their path to recovery and independent living.”

The ‘big sleep out’ builds on recent fundraising efforts for the homeless charity by the company, after the team raised £6,000 by taking on a 50-kilometre hike across a SAS training ground in the Brecon Beacons.

Crawley Open House provides support and services for those suffering the effects of homelessness, unemployment, loneliness, discrimination, or other forms of social exclusion for 40 years.

Staff at the hostel work closely with residents and partner agencies to address some of the issues that made residents homeless, such as financial and unemployment problems, trauma and other mental health issues, addiction, relationship crisis, or even physical health problems.

People can still donate to Southern Sheeting’s fund for the charity by visiting https://www.justgiving.com/team/Southernsheetingsleepout.