As the housing and homelessness crisis continues to impact communities across the nation, the annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout is rallying business leaders from various industries to raise awareness and funds in support of homelessness services.
Among the participants this year are prominent figures from the construction sector, who will be swapping their beds for cardboard boxes on 20 June 2024.
The Vinnies CEO Sleepout, now in its 19th year, has raised over $91 million nationally to support the vital work of the St Vincent de Paul Society’s homelessness services.
This year’s event will see leaders from the construction industry, including Ashley Agostino (Director, Bentino), Lou Noiosi (CEO, Shereton Developments), Linda Lodge (National Director, WT Partnership), and Dale Bradshaw (NSW General Manager, Clarendon Homes), joining hundreds of other business leaders across the country.
The latest census data reveals a staggering 122,000 people experiencing homelessness in Australia, with New South Wales accounting for the highest number of any state or territory.
Recent figures from the Australian Institute for Health and Welfare highlight a significant increase in unassisted requests for assistance over the past three years in NSW.
The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW, a leading provider of frontline services, supported more than 28,000 individuals through its homelessness, housing, health, and community inclusion services over the past year.
With over 100 local services across the state, the organisation plays a crucial role in addressing the growing need within communities.
“The annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout is the largest fundraiser held by the St Vincent de Paul Society each year and plays an integral role in ensuring our services have the capacity to meet the growing need that exists in the community,” said Yolanda Saiz, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW CEO.
Saiz emphasised the importance of the event, stating: “No one should endure homelessness, everyone deserves a home.
“The impact the event is able to make extends well beyond the night as participants are challenged to use their connections and influence to make a difference in addressing homelessness.”
The 2024 Vinnies CEO Sleepout will take place on Thursday, June 20th, across Australia, with events in Sydney, Newcastle, and Wollongong.
CEOs and senior leaders are encouraged to register and donate online at www.ceosleepout.org.au, joining the collective effort to tackle the homelessness crisis and support those in need.