Pearl River County’s SPCA is looking for animal lovers willing to spend a night at the shelter to raise funds.
SPCA Treasurer Lauren Fitts said the inaugural event was inspired by the Covenant House Sleep Out held in New Orleans she participated in recently.
Fitts said that event helped participants understand what it is like to be homeless. So, she decided to set up something similar so animal lovers and supporters of the local animal shelter can help raise money to fund the operation of the SPCA in Pearl River County.
The event, called “One Night Stand,” is still in the planning stages, so Fitts said she is looking for people who would be willing to participate.
Set for Feb. 29 from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. the next day, it will task participants with spending the night at the shelter with the dogs and cats.
Fitts said participants can bring any item they want that will help them be comfortable during that night, so long as those items are brought home at the event’s conclusion.
“You can bring whatever you want to sleep on,” Fitts said.
Most participants will establish their sleeping area in the dog yard outside, but the cat room may also be available, especially if the weather is cold that night, Fitts said.
Children are welcome to participate, so long as their parent remains with them.
It will also feature fire side chats from the shelter’s staff, kennel decorating contest, and refreshments throughout the night.
Fitts said she can help participants set up a methods to raise funds as part of their involvement, such as through Facebook or by simply soliciting donations.
Incentives will be offered for those who raise various amounts of money, such as a T-shirt.
For more information on this event, call 601-909-5299.