Morristown High becomes home base for Homeless Solutions’ growing ‘Night in the Cold’ event, Dec. 5

From Homeless Solutions Inc.:

Homeless Solutions’ “A Night in the Cold” Event
Finds a Home at Morristown High School

Homeless Solutions Inc. will host its 6th annual A Night in the Cold fundraiser on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, inviting Morris County residents to spend one night outdoors to raise awareness and critical funds for neighbors experiencing homelessness.

This year’s event has already drawn strong early support: 242 participants have registered, collectively raising more than $105,000. The organization’s goal is to reach $240,000. With one more week left to fundraise, they’re closing in on the halfway mark.

Designed as a symbolic act of solidarity with those facing housing instability, the event asks participants to give up the warmth and comfort of home for a single night. Funds raised will help Homeless Solutions operate its extensive housing programs, including emergency shelter, transitional housing for families, a winter warming center, and 126 units of affordable housing across Morris County.

A new feature this year is the creation of an in-person gathering hub, “ANITC HQ,” hosted at Morristown High School. Approximately 250 attendees are expected to take part in the program, which includes remarks from Homeless Solutions President and CEO Jaclyn Stoll, local officials, and a firsthand testimonial from a program participant.

Guests also move through a multi-station learning experience before spending the night on the school’s turf field. Dinner will be donated by Chef Fredy’s and Chick-fil-A® as well as breakfast from A&B Bagel.

“We want people to understand the realities of housing instability in our community,” Stoll said. “Even one night in the cold offers a powerful perspective on the challenges our guests face and highlights the importance of our work.”

While many local groups and teams such as the Morristown High School Softball Team, Key Club, the Morristown Wildcats and the New York Red Bulls are getting involved at the high school, others are choosing to participate remotely.

Those choosing to sleep outside in their own yard, car, porch, or other safe outdoor space can be part of the groups’ “Cold Collective.” They can connect with the ANITC HQ community through social media using the hashtag #HSINIGHTINTHECOLD.

Those looking to participate can still be part of the Cold Collective where they can sign up as late as the night of the event. The cost to register to participate is $45.

A Night in the Cold was created in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic and has grown each year along with community need. According to Monarch Housing, New Jersey saw an 8 percent rise in homelessness in its most recent statewide Point-in-Time count.

Homeless Solutions, founded in 1983, operates under the philosophy of offering “A Hand UP, not a HandOUT.” In addition to shelter, the nonprofit offers programs tailored to individuals, families, senior women, and single women, helping them secure stable housing and pursue long-term goals. Those unable to participate in the overnight event can still support Homeless Solutions’ mission by donating online.