The 5th Annual Box Car City, benefiting Family Promise of East San Fernando Valley, is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 5 at 3 p.m. until 8 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 6 in the parking lot of the Glendale Church of Christ, located at 2021 W. Glenoaks Blvd., Glendale. This annual event shines a spotlight on the plight of homeless families in the local community while giving participants an opportunity to see what it’s like to spend the night without a roof over their heads.

Adults, youth and children are encouraged to decorate cardboard boxes and tents and sleep overnight to raise awareness of the Family Promise mission to provide homeless families with help and hope for tomorrow. Participants pay $15 per person ($10 per person for groups of 10 or more). Youth must be supervised by an adult (one adult for every five youth). Prizes will be awarded for the most creative dwelling.

This year, for the first time, participants will have the opportunity to sleep in their cars as many families do to survive. Participants pay $50 per car and prizes will be given for the most creatively decorated vehicles.

Meals (dinner and breakfast) are provided for all overnight participants. A Battle of the Bands will follow dinner at 8 p.m., with more entertainment and awards. A $5 donation is requested for those enjoying the entertainment but not staying overnight. Food will also be available for purchase.

Family Promise of East San Fernando Valley opened in July 2010 as one of over 183 networks across the country affiliated with Family Promise, a national non-profit organization committed to helping homeless families to achieve lasting independence. Family Promise helps mobilize communities to provide safe shelter, meals, and support services for low-income families through programs designed to redress the underlying causes of homelessness. Family Promise of East San Fernando Valley serves the geographic area that includes North Hollywood, Burbank, Glendale and Eagle Rock through the participation of an Interfaith Hospitality Network of local congregations and volunteers.

For more information on participating in or sponsoring Box Car City, visit www.familypromiseesfv.org/box_city or call 747-333-6082.