One man, one container, seven days for local kids

Isaac Davey is spending seven days living inside a portable storage container in Chatham as part of the “7 Days Contained, For the Kids” fundraiser, which aims to raise $12,000 for the Children’s Treatment Centre Foundation of Chatham-Kent. Most of the items inside the container will be removed once their individual fundraising targets are reached. (Chris Campbell/CTV News Windsor)

A Ridgetown man is giving up his everyday comforts for a week in hopes of raising $12,000 for children and youth in Chatham-Kent.

Isaac Davey began living inside a portable storage container in downtown Chatham at the Exordia Creative office at 5 Llewellyn St. on Monday as part of the “7 Days Contained, For the Kids” fundraising challenge supporting the Children’s Treatment Centre Foundation of Chatham-Kent.

The container started out furnished with a bed, seating, entertainment, snacks and other comforts. But as donations reach specific fundraising targets, items are removed, making Davey’s stay progressively more challenging.

“The hardest part is probably not going to be able to move much,” Davey said. “There’s not a lot of room in here.”

Davey, who works in Chatham at Exordia Creative, said he enjoys challenging himself and trying new things. He also has a personal connection to the cause, noting the treatment centre has helped families he knows.

He said the challenge offers donors an opportunity to directly influence his experience while supporting local children.

“You’re not just donating to a charity, but you’re also changing the course of the entire challenge,” Davey said.

One item he hopes will remain is his bed.

“If this thing gets removed, I’m sleeping on the floor,” he said with a laugh.

Davey told CTV News he will have to get creative if more of his comforts disappear, but he is prepared to make the most of the experience.

Mike Genge, president and CEO of the Children’s Treatment Centre Foundation of Chatham-Kent, said the money raised will support recreational opportunities, equipment and services for children and families.

That includes activities such as sailing, sledge hockey and basketball, as well as social workers who help families navigate government programs and find appropriate services and treatment.

The foundation also funds programs and services that are not covered by government funding.

Genge said community fundraising helps the organization provide those supports to children and youth with disabilities and their families.

He welcomed the opportunity to take part in the unusual challenge, adding that Chatham-Kent has a strong tradition of community support.

The fundraising goal is $12,000, with the public able to contribute toward individual items or make donations of any amount.

The challenge is being documented through social media and a 24-hour livestream on Davey’s YouTube channel. It runs from Oct. 19 to Oct. 26.

Donations can be made at 7 Days Contained - Portable Storage