“What is Night In A Car?
Night in a Car (NIAC) is a homelessness simulation and fundraiser, put on by the **Mercer County Housing Initiative, which intends to shine a spotlight on the hidden aspect of rural homelessness that many in our community experience – living in a car.
That's right, it's happening here in Mercer County.
Participants of Night in a Car will "live" out of their cars during the overnight hours of February 7, 2025. Our challenge to participants is to raise $500 or more per car, which will benefit the Mercer County Emergency Housing Fund. This is done by seeking sponsors. Sponsors can be businesses, individuals, or organizations who make a commitment to donate or pledge a chosen amount of money when their sponsored party spends the night in their car during the event.
The overnight simulation will be done “drive-in” style at three locations throughout the county that have graciously offered to host the event. Form your team (or go solo!), choose the one that is most convenient to you and sign up on the MCBT website!
*Aledo VFW, 106 SW 3rd Ave. Aledo, IL
*Eliza Community Center, 557 155th Ave, New Boston, IL
*Preemption United Methodist Church, 2652 170th Ave,
Preemption, IL
Each location will have security volunteers - provided by Mercer County Search and Rescue - throughout the night, as well as a dedicated building open to participants for bathroom breaks, or to warm up with hot cocoa and light snacks.
Learn more about the event, sign up your team, learn how you can help promote the event, or become a sponsor by visiting the MCBT website.
https://www.mcbettertogether.org/nightinacar
**The Mercer County Housing Initiative is comprised of the following organizations: Mercer County Better Together, Mercy One Genesis, Mercer County Health Dept, Mercer County Family Crisis Center, Mercer County Ministerial Alliance, and Project Now”