Camp Street Lights inspires the next generation of leaders
More than 2,600 students in Hillsborough County Public Schools have experienced at least one form of homelessness during the past year - an alarming figure. These young people are living in cars, public spaces, hotels or motels, shelters, or doubled up in shared homes.
To shine a light on this urgent issue, Hillsborough County's Children's Services hosted its third annual Camp Street Lights, a 12-hour sleep-out designed to build empathy and understanding around youth homelessness.
Held on Nov. 21, the immersive experience encouraged participants to step outside their comfort zones and gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be unhoused. More than 200 local high school and college students took part in expert-led discussions on homelessness and housing challenges. They engaged directly with elected officials on civic issues, participated in experiential learning sessions led by Metropolitan Ministries, and capped off the evening by sleeping outdoors to deepen awareness and perspective.
Speakers included representatives from Hillsborough County, the City of Tampa, Plant City, the Tampa Hillsborough Homeless Initiative, Tampa Housing Authority, the Tampa Bay Rays, Madi's Movement, Feeding Tampa Bay, the University of South Florida, and the Ryan Nece Foundation - with former Tampa Bay Buccaneer and Super Bowl champion Ryan Nece addressing students himself.
Food insecurity, a major driver of homelessness, was also a central theme. Lorena Hardwick, Chief External Affairs Officer for Feeding Tampa Bay, noted that when people are forced to choose between housing and food, they will often prioritize feeding their families.
As part of the event, youth groups participated in the CAN Do! Challenge, a friendly food drive competition benefiting Feeding Tampa Bay. The effort brought in 4,380 donated food items to support Hillsborough County families currently living without stable housing. Brooks DeBartolo Collegiate High School led the contributions with the highest number of donated items.
Events like Camp Street Lights show what's possible when young people come together with community partners to learn, listen, and lead with compassion. Their energy and commitment demonstrate that the next generation is ready to make a meaningful difference.
Hillsborough County Children's Services provides critical support to youth experiencing trauma, housing instability, or the need for emergency shelter. The department offers a range of programs designed to keep young people safe, supported, and empowered to lead healthy, successful lives. Learn more at HCFL.gov/Children.