Habitat for Humanity will host their annual “Sleepout in Risman Plaza” tonight to raise money for local organizations throughout Portage County.

Starting at 8 p.m., participating students will spend the night in cardboard boxes until 9 a.m. tomorrow.

“We’re hoping for 50 to 60 students,” co-president Deidre Jones said. “They only have to stay for an hour or two; we know it’s cold out.”

No matter the weather, Habitat for Humanity, along with members from The Dive and Circle K, will stay outside over night in their own version of a shanty town.

Although students may not think homelessness is a problem in the area, Jones said it is prevalent throughout the state. The group holds the event every year to raise awareness about homelessness in Ohio.

“Students can’t bring extras like air mattresses and laptops because you won’t see a homeless person with that stuff,” Jones said.

Participating students received pledges from family, friends and Kent residents to stay outside in the cold weather. The donated money will be given to local organizations and to other Habitat programs, Jones said.

Everyone is welcome to stop by and check out the event.

Contact social service reporter Katie Alberti at [email protected].