NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Volunteers and Congressman Troy Carter participated in the annual Covenant House Sleep Out event on Thursday, Nov. 22. The volunteers chose to spend the night outside in the cold in an effort that aims to end youth homelessness. This year, the event has raised more than $280,000. New Orleans City Council votes to ban release of Mylar balloons The money helps Covenant House offer resources like food, shelter, clothing, education, job training and health care to help keep young people off the streets. WGNO spoke with Carter and Covenant House CEO Rheneisha Robertson as the event began on Thursday night. On Friday, Nov. 22, WGNO checked back in with Carter to discuss his experience, the impact of the event and his main takeaways. WGNO also spoke with Robertson about her main takeaways as the event wrapped up. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Gaetz says he will not return to Congress Early voting starts for December Congressional General Election in Louisiana Covenant House New Orleans shares impact of annual Sleep Out event Can Matt Gaetz return to Congress? Dry and sunny weekend ahead, rain chances return next week