A group of Brock students has taken up residence on a sidewalk in front of Taro Hall in an effort to raise money and food donations for the local food bank.

Called 5 Days for the Homeless, the campaign has students living outside for five days – eating, studying and sleeping – in an effort to draw attention to poverty and homelessness in Niagara and beyond.

The group of 20 students has raised $2,000 so far for Community Care of St. Catharines and Thorold. The goal is to collect $5,000 by the time the students roll up their sleeping bags and temporary digs on Friday.

Students are still attending class during the drive.

In total, 26 universities throughout Canada are participating in the national campaign. Since its inception in 2005, 5 Days for the Homeless has raised more than $975,000 for the cause.

This year, participating universities hope to reach the $1-million mark.

Watch the video to learn more about Brock’s edition of the campaign.