February 5, 2027 we’re doing it again. Spending the night in our car so others don’t have to.
Mercer County’s Night in a Car
FEBRUARY 5, 2027
VENUE: ALEDO VFW Parking Lot: 106 SW 3rd Ave
IT ONLY TAKES ONE.
One unexpected expense. One lost paycheck. One illness. One change in circumstance. Sometimes, it doesn't take much to put stable housing at risk.
In a rural community like ours, housing insecurity can be easy to miss. It may look like someone sleeping in a vehicle, staying with family or friends, or being an active member of the community while quietly trying to keep a roof over their head.
Just because we don't see everyday, doesn't mean it isn't real.
On February 5, 2027, participants will gather for the third year in a row, at the Aledo VFW and spend the night in their vehicles as part of Mercer County's Night in a Car, a homelessness simulation and fundraiser that directly benefits the Mercer County Emergency Housing Fund.
Participants are challenged to raise a minimum of $500+ per car through sponsors and donors. Businesses, friends, family, churches and organizations can all help make that happen.
The overnight event will be held “drive-in” style at the Aledo VFW, with security provided by Mercer County Search & Rescue throughout the night and the VFW building available for bathroom breaks and warming up.
Ready to be the one? Start or join a team using the forms below.
FIRST: Read the Liability Waiver & Rules ↓
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I, the participant, understand that Mercer County Better Together, Mercer County Housing Initiative, and all associated organizations of Night In A Car, are not responsible for any expense or liability incurred as a result of my participation in Night In A Car, including medical expenses due to any sickness or injury incurred as a result. I understand the risks associated with my participation in Night In A Car. I assume all related risks, both known and unknown to me, of my voluntary participation, including travel to, from, and during any participant activity. I also assume all the risks of participating in any or all activities and programs during Night In A Car. I do hereby consent for Mercer County Better Together and Mercer County Housing Initiative to use my image, likeness, and/or voice in any photographs, videotape, or digital recordings of me for the purpose of promoting Mercer County Better Together, Mercer County Housing Initiative, and Night In A Car, through print and electronic publication, publicly or privately. I waive any rights, claims, or interest I may have to control the use of my likeness in whatever media used. I represent that I am at least 18 years of age, have read and understand the foregoing statement, and am competent to execute this agreement. If under 18, a parent or legal guardian must approve.
**Please note that while participants are encouraged to come with a full tank of gas, running your car for prolonged periods carries risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. We encourage all participants to exercise a healthy dose of caution when choosing to run their vehicles throughout the night. Mercer County Better Together, Mercer County Housing Initiative, and all associated organizations of Night In A Car can not be held responsible for any injury incurred due to a participant’s decision to run their vehicle. We strongly encourage participants to instead bundle up and bring plenty of blankets, hats, gloves, sleeping bags, etc.
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Rules:
No alcoholic beverages or illegal substances.
No candles or open flames in cars.
Please have a full tank of gas.
Dress warmly. Bring blankets or sleeping bags and flashlights. Participants are advised to bring plenty of blankets and wear extra socks, gloves, and hats. It will get colder than you imagine.
Come inside to warm up as needed.
Restrooms and refreshments, including light snacks and hot beverages, will be provided throughout the event.
Security volunteers will make rounds of the parking lot every hour.
Participants may invite their supporters to spend a portion of the night in their car with them.
SECOND: Fill out the Start a New Team or Join an Existing Team form ↓
LAST: Create your team page on GiveButter, our new fundraising page, where you’ll do all your fundraising this year.
Why join us?
Your participation will help Mercer County residents struggling with homelessness or housing insecurity. 100% of the funds you raise will go directly to the Mercer County Emergency Housing Fund, which is there to help with emergency and transition housing, as well as related needs like keeping the lights on or keeping someone in their home when they’ve hit a rough patch.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS