Sparrow's Nest seeking sponsors for 'Somebodies' campaign

Sparrow’s Nest of Northwest Montana is seeking sponsor sites around the Flathead Valley for its annual “Somebodies” campaign April 9 through 19th.

More than 75 “somebodies” ­— mannequins — will be placed at sponsor sites to raise awareness of the unaccompanied, homeless high school students living in the Flathead. Each mannequin will be outfitted with a sign explaining the every day situation of homelessness, such as not having a place to sleep, and a sign that provides the definition of homelessness under the McKinney-Vento Act.

Homelessness is defined as lacking a fixed, regular or adequate night-time residence, according to the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. “Unaccompanied” means a student is not living in the physical custody of a parent or guardian.

Sparrow’s Nest is a Kalispell-based nonprofit providing resources and housing for unaccompanied, homeless high school students in the valley with the goal of helping them focus on graduating. A Whitefish home currently provides housing for up to five teens. A Kalispell home is currently being renovated.

To sponsor the “Somebodies” campaign call 406-309-5196 or email admin@sparrowsnestnwmt.org.