If you live in the Anchorage area, you’re no stranger to the problem of homelessness and homeless deaths in our city. Recently, homelessness has been a hot topic in the news, as Anchorage has renewed its efforts to create a long-term housing and rehabilitation plan for people on the streets.

Meanwhile, neighboring towns like Palmer and Wasilla are forming their own coalitions to provide aid to the homeless. On July 23, Family Promise of the Matanuska Valley will be hosting a “Cardboard City” event to benefit homeless families in the Mat-Su Valley!

Although many people feel empathy for homeless Alaskans, most of us have an extremely limited understanding of their situation. The Cardboard City event is an opportunity to “walk a mile in someone else’s shoes” – i.e., sleep overnight on the street and experience a little of what it’s like to be homeless and in great need of help.  

Cardboard City participants will gather at the Palmer State Fairgrounds on Friday the 23rd to receive their cardboard box and erect a "dwelling." Participants will also get to eat in a soup/bread line and participate in homelessness awareness activities!

This may sound like a crazy plan for your Friday night, but I hope you’ll really consider the impact this experience could have on your life (and the lives of the people you raise money for).

The fact is, homelessness will not be solved in Alaska until everyone decides to contribute to a solution. Today, you can contribute ideas by posting comments in the area below. The One for All team will review your comments and help take action.

If you’re up for an educational and community-bonding event in Palmer on July 23, head out to Cardboard City with your sleeping bag, tarp, and whatever pledges you’re able to raise for the Family Promise cause. Youth must be accompanied by an adult.

P.S. If you attend, please give a shout-out in the comment section below to share your experience!