Judah's Big Winter Sleepout

Judah is, in many ways, your typical nine-year-old. He likes school because of his friends. Loves football and computer games. Could do without learning geography.

But encouraged by his parents, he did something extraordinary for a young boy of his age. He spent a night outside in the cold to raise awareness of homelessness and funds for LCM's ministry to people who are sleeping rough in London.

He never imagined sleeping outside with strips of cardboard to protect him from the cold ground, but when his mother discovered the Big Winter Sleepout online, he knew it was something he wanted to do.

"My mum got this link in an email, and she thought it was a great idea for us to help," Judah explains. "We decided, yeah, we were going to go."

Judah had always been aware of the struggles homeless people face, but as winter set in, he felt an even greater need to help.

"I know that there are a lot of homeless people on the streets and that a lot of people need help right now, especially in the winter," he says.

"They sleep rough, and it's really hard for them to sleep in the terrible weather. It can be quite serious sometimes."

Determined to make a difference

Determined to make a difference, Judah began raising funds just a week before the event. But his enthusiasm was contagious, and support poured in from his community, his church, and even strangers. He raised about £1,500 for LCM’s Homeless and Marginalised programmes.

"To everyone who donated, this is going to help the homeless," he says, grateful for the support.

His father, Ben, isn’t surprised by Judah’s passion.

"We’ve always noticed that Judah has a heart for people who are struggling," Ben shares.

"Even when he was younger, he'd see someone on the street and ask, ‘Can we go and get something for them?’ He’s always wanted to help."

The Big Winter Sleepout 2025

The night of the Sleepout was an eye-opening experience for Judah.

"It was cold," he recalls. "I felt like I got to experience how hard it is to have a rough sleep."

Despite the discomfort, the experience reinforced his commitment to helping others.

"Jesus helps others," Judah points out. "But he wants us to help too."

Ben says Judah's enthusiasm drove his fundraising efforts.

"Around our church, people who hadn’t even heard of the event before started donating, and now there’s interest in doing the Sleepout next year from different people," says Ben.

Judah’s journey with the Big Winter Sleepout is just the beginning.

"Sometimes I go into my room and try to think about the next charity I’m going to raise for," he says.

For this young boy, helping others isn’t just a one-time event. It’s a mission he’s eager to continue.

"Yeah, let's go for it!" he says.

We would like to send a huge thank you to everyone who participated in the Big Winter Sleepout this year and donated to LCM’s homeless and marginalised programmes! We praise God for your support. Thank you.