“Winter has finally arrived in Sydney, and we need to ensure that we don’t leave the most vulnerable members of our communities out in the cold,” said Vinnies NSW CEO, Jack de Groot.
The sleepout – on Thursday, June 20 at White Bay Cruise Terminal – is a way for business leaders to raise money towards vital programs, counselling, healthcare, accommodation and food provided by Vinnies for people experiencing homelessness.
The latest census figures show that there are 37,715 people experiencing homelessness in NSW. The reasons and the way in which people are finding themselves homeless are changing. Homelessness in women 55 plus and young people 12-24, is on the rise.
NSW Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services, Gareth Ward, has pledged to join the sleepout: “The event is an opportunity to shine a light on the homelessness issue and the great work organisations like Vinnies are doing.”