People in Tonawanda are getting a better understanding of the struggles homeless individuals face everyday.

Students and teachers at the 32nd Annual Jerry Starr Ken-Ton Schools’ SleepOut slept in the cafeteria at Hoover Middle School and outside in refrigerator boxes. Participants also brought boxes of food, clothes and used furniture to donate to local shelters. 

"Being aware of what it means to be hungry, being aware of what just happened recently when we had that terrible cold stretch and we lost a homeless man in Williamsville. What does this mean to be on the streets? What does this mean to be helping your fellow men and women who are in need?, " said Kenmore Teachers Association President, Peter Stuhlmiller.

Since 1988, the event has raised nearly $1 million for local organizations.