Sleeping in cardboard boxes on the hard macadam parking lot, 25 youth from Union United Church of Christ, Neffs, had a chance to experience a night without comfortable beds and cozy surroundings.

Led by Pastor Kris Snyder-Samuelson and nine other adults, the kids engaged in activities to develop awareness of the conditions of orphaned and abandoned children who do not have a place to sleep at night.

While the "Insomnia Event" was a learning experience, it also provided a chance for the young people to raise money for the organization Sweet Sleep.

Through sponsorship and contributions from church members, the group raised $1,300 to help homeless children.

Sweet Sleep provides bedding, mattresses, bed frames, mosquito nets and Bibles to orphans in countries such as Uganda, where the charity also helps resettle children whose homes were lost through conflicts.

Pastor Snyder-Samuelson explained the purpose of the sleepout.

"We wanted to learn about Sweet Sleep and the work they do, then reflect on what it would be like for children in those situations," Snyder-Samuelson said.

On a Saturday evening in late September, the youth congregated with sleeping bags, pillows, warm clothing and empty refrigerator boxes decorated with the things for which they are grateful and for which they pray.

Unlke most youth events where there is plenty to eat, this time the kids were served only hot chocolate and juice, to bring them closer to the situation of homeless children.

Sitting around a small campfire container in the parking lot, the youth had a simulated activity in which they were given a small number of beans to purchase food and other necessities.

"We wanted them to think of how you use your resources and what you do if you have no resources. We talked about what it's like for people whose lives are different and what we can do to help," Snyder-Samuelson said.

She reported the group participated in activities until midnight, then went to bed in their cardboard boxes.

In the morning, the youth welcomed donations from people coming to church, then closed the event with a time of worship.

Snyder-Samuelson offered her thoughts on the experience.

"The kids were really open to everything we were talking about," the pastor said. "They were enthusiastic about trying to help others and had fun together, too. We are grateful for everybody's support."