RUTLAND, Mass. - Along Main Street in Rutland this week, you'll notice a big green tent on the town’s common. It's Neil Viner's, and he's looking to send a message about what he describes as an epidemic of homeless veterans.

"It hits home and people are taking note," Viner said. "And that's what it's all about."

The Rutland native started raising money for homeless vets eight years ago. It started with him diving into the Atlantic Ocean every December, but Viner didn't think it was reaching as many people as it could.

"The water was cold, and I said, 'this isn't the safest thing to do, we need to revisit,'" Viner said. "So I came up with bringing the awareness out here."

Now, every December, he sleeps on the common for a week. When not at work or having dinner at home, Viner is sitting in a chair on the common. Even on days like Wednesday, when the weather isn’t so cooperative, he’s available to accept donations.

"I actually enjoy this weather because I want to feel what a homeless veteran goes through," Viner said. "I want to make it as realistic as possible."

Sleeping in the cold isn't easy, so he’s had to make a few arrangements for his health.

"If you're homeless, chances are you don't have an air mattress," Viner said. "But, my back can't handle the ground."

Viner expects to be on the common until Friday or Saturday morning. Although he's not a veteran, the issue of homeless vets has an impact on him.

"My father, my two brothers, I have a son in the Air Force serving on deployment right now," Viner said. "So, I do have a connection to it."

All of the money he raises goes to Veterans Inc. in Worcester. The nonprofit is also looking for grocery store gift cards. Viner will drop them off Christmas morning, which is his favorite part.

"I feel like a little kid again," Viner said. "That's the best part of doing this whole thing."