The hard work and generosity of over 200 participants across New South Wales has raised over $135,000 – and counting – to help address homelessness occurring in local communities.
For the third year running, the NSW Vinnies Community Sleepout provided locals with an opportunity to raise funds and awareness for homelessness, with all money raised going back into their communities.
Due to COVID-19 participants slept out in their cars, on their couches or in their backyards as part of a virtual event hosted by Nine and 2GB presenter Deborah Knight. The event was held on Friday evening 23 October.
Vinnies NSW CEO Jack de Groot was thrilled by the support shown which will allow local Vinnies services and programs to assist people experiencing homelessness and hardship through accommodation, food, financial aid and other relief.
“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support shown by everyone who took part and those who donated throughout the state,” Mr de Groot said.
“This past year has been extremely difficult, there are a lot of people doing it tough and many reaching our for help for the very first time. The funds raised will allow us to make a difference to people who have fallen on hard times.”
Figures from the most recent 2016 Census revealed that on any given night, in excess of 116,000 people nationwide have no permanent home. In NSW, the number of people experiencing homelessness increased by 37% from 2011-2016 to a total of 37,715.
The NSW Vinnies Community Sleepout follows on from the record success of Vinnies CEO Sleepout, which raised more than $5.8 million nationally in June.
Donations for Vinnies Community Sleepouts remain open until the end of November. To donate, visit www.vinnies.org.au/communitysleepout
With thanks to the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW.
