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REHOBOTH - They huddled in sleeping bags inside cardboard boxes covered with tarps to stay dry. They panhandled for money on the streets. They depended on friends and neighbors to bring them food.

They didn't do it because they had to, but because they wanted to help others in need.

The youth group from Rehoboth Congregational Church held their second annual "There's No Place Like A Home" weekend Friday through Sunday.

The purpose of the event was to raise awareness of homelessness and collect money and food for local aid programs including the Rehoboth food pantry, Crossroads in Providence and Attleboro soup kitchens.

More than 60 teenagers and 16 adults camped out for two rainy nights on Redway Plain on Route 44. During the day they went door to door seeking donations and served meals at area soup kitchens. They showed up with only the clothes on their backs and sleeping gear. "It went very well this year. Last year it was cold, but this year it was wet. They really had to work hard together," said Don McClain, event coordinator.

Youth group members from other area churches, including Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Seekonk, Christ Church in Swansea, and St. Stephen's in Attleboro, joined in the project.

"To get this many high school students to commit to something like this is awesome," said Steve Brasier, one of the youth group's advisers.

Last year about 50 teenagers camped out and they raised more than $12,000. This year they raised at least $10,000, according to McClain. Organizers said cash donations were lower this year because of the economic slowdown but many still brought food donations.

The younger members did not camp out, but they contributed by fasting and putting together 300 bagged lunches for the soup kitchens. Many of them can't wait until they are eligible to take part.

Both the youth and the parents said it was a successful and meaningful weekend.

"I was really excited to experience what it is like. The rain was a challenge, but it was fun," said Tara Strange, 14, from Rehoboth Congregational.

"The children have a level of compassion that I know I never had when I was their age," said Mike Sullivan-Silva, whose daughter Meghan has taken part for two years.

The participants learned what it's like to be homeless in more ways than one.

"It's hard when you're on the street and people ignore you," said Hannah Crellin, 14, from Rehoboth Congregational. They pointed out that it's not just about the homeless, it's about anyone who's less fortunate or in need.

The church plans to continue the project next year.

"I have hope that every year it will get better and better," said Annik Spencer, 16, from Rehoboth Congregational.

The group is still accepting donations, which can be mailed to: Rehoboth Youth Group, Rehoboth Congregational Church, P.O. Box 325, Rehoboth, MA 02769.