Why People Are Sleeping On Morristown H.S.'s Field This December

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Morris County residents are being invited to trade their warm beds for a night outdoors this December as a local nonprofit prepares to host its annual fundraiser supporting people experiencing homelessness.

Homeless Solutions will hold its seventh annual "A Night in the Cold" fundraiser on Dec. 4, inviting individuals, families, and community groups to spend a night outside to raise awareness and funds for the organization's shelter and supportive services.

The event will return to Morristown High School, at 50 Early Street, where participants can gather on the football field for an overnight experience intended to highlight the challenges faced by people without stable housing.

Organizers hope to raise $240,000 through this year's fundraiser, with proceeds supporting programs that help individuals and families find safety and long-term housing stability.

Participants can choose between two options: spending the night at Morristown High School as part of the event's central gathering, known as "ANITC HQ," or participating remotely through the "Cold Collective."

Those attending the high school gathering will spend the night on the football field, with access to a warming area in the school cafeteria. Dinner and breakfast will also be provided.

Space at the high school is limited to 300 participants.

Residents who prefer to participate from home can join the Cold Collective by spending the night in their backyard, car, garage, porch, or another safe outdoor space.

The fundraiser is open to participants of all ages, including families, schools, faith communities, sports teams, scout troops, and local businesses.

Registration costs $45 per person, which counts toward each participant's fundraising goal. Organizers suggest raising $500 per participant, although there is no minimum fundraising requirement listed beyond registration.

The first 200 people to register will receive a free event T-shirt.

Each participant will receive a personal fundraising page to collect donations from friends, family members, and other supporters. Fundraising will remain open until noon on Dec. 6.

Homeless Solutions, based in Cedar Knolls, provides shelter and supportive services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity in Morris County.

The organization said the annual event is intended to bring the community together while generating financial support for services that help residents move toward stable housing.

Residents interested in participating or donating can visit the A Night in the Cold fundraising website.