Although many Turlock community members are welcoming the recent drop in temperature, those who are without a home view it as the beginning of another challenging winter.

With their eighth annual Homeless Awareness Week, members from California State University, Stanislaus’ fraternity Nu Alpha Kappa hope to raise awareness regarding the homeless epidemic in Turlock.

“NAK always tends to do this when it starts to get cold to demonstrate that it’s not fun to sleep outside, especially without enough blankets,” said Greek Life programs advisor and leadership coordinator Nicole Turner. “Something as simple as a blanket is really needed this time of year.”

For one week, fraternity members will assume the position of a homeless individual from the community, abandoning luxuries including electronics and showers. Only leaving to go to class or work, members are completely dependent on the donations of others when it comes to food, clothing, or blankets.

“It’s an issue and not a lot of awareness is being done here in Turlock,” said NAK community service chair and event chair Pedro Martinez.

Throughout the week, members from NAK hope to educate the campus community that there are many factors that lead to homelessness, including individuals who have nowhere to go and those who are not able to afford housing.

“Some of your close friends can get into a bad situation and could end up homeless,” said NAK member Alfredo Casillas. “I hope that people realize that this can happen to anyone and support those that need a home.”

Fulfilling their motto: "I have a home, I have a bed, I’m fundraising for those who do not," a majority of the funds NAK receives throughout the week will be donated to the We Care Shelter in Turlock.

Homeless Awareness Week will continue through Friday. For more information on how to donate, visit facebook.com/HomelessAwarenessWeekNAK.