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24 Hours
on the Green
Wolcott, CT
High school students step into the cold for 24 hours to better understand hunger and housing insecurity, and to stand in solidarity with neighbors in need.
About the Event
Why 24 Hours Matters
Homelessness in Greater Waterbury is invisible most days of the year. 24 Hours on the Green makes it visible, by choice, on one cold night.
Students Lead
High schoolers from Wolcott and neighboring towns camp out for 24 hours, experiencing a small fraction of what their homeless neighbors face nightly.
Real Solidarity
Not a simulation. Not a performance. A chosen night of cold, discomfort, and honest conversation about housing insecurity in Connecticut.
Community Witness
Faith leaders, families, and civic groups visit throughout the night to support students and bear witness. Warmth, meals, and reflection shared together.
How to Participate
Three Ways to Join
Student Participants
Local high school students sign up with parental permission. Sleeping bags, warm layers, and water required.
Business Sponsors
Your company name on event signage, in the program, and in GWIM communications. Meaningful community visibility.
Night Supporters
Drop off a hot meal, coffee, a word of encouragement, or a blanket. Visit for an hour or stay through the night.
Date Announced Each Year
The event is typically held in the fall. Call 203-757-7734 or follow GWIM on Facebook for the current schedule and volunteer sign-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions
Getting There
Directions to Wolcott Town Green
Wolcott Town Green, Wolcott, CT. From across Greater Waterbury and nearby towns.
The Community Shows Up
Past Sponsors & Supporters
Businesses and organizations across Greater Waterbury that have backed this event and GWIM programs over the years.
Businesses
Ion Bank, Thomaston Savings Bank, Tindall Law Firm, Carmody Torrance Sandak Hennessey, Albert Bros, BJM Law, Post University, ServiceMaster Restore, Brass City Tile Designs, and many more.
Schools & Youth Groups
Area high schools, scout troops, and youth organizations across Waterbury, Wolcott, Naugatuck, Middlebury, and surrounding towns bring teams, drives, and volunteers.
Faith Communities
52 member congregations (churches, synagogues, and a mosque) rotating kitchen duty and providing ongoing event support since 1933.
Coverage Across Greater Waterbury
Our events are supported by neighbors across Waterbury, Wolcott, Naugatuck, Middlebury, Thomaston, Prospect, Watertown, Cheshire, and beyond. If you cover GWIM in local media or community newsletters, we would love to link your work.
Email gwimsk@forhungry.com with coverage or to request press materials.