We have all seen signs like the one featured on this blog but the fact is that homelessness continues to rise in Australia. Six years ago, the 2016 Census showed over 116,000 people across the country were without a safe, secure place to sleep at night and that number is expected to grow.
Homelessness affects so many people from all walks of life and there are many reasons why people face homelessness. For some it may be due to domestic and family violence or family breakdown. For others it may be a result of losing a much needed job or financial or psychological distress. For many it’s simply the lack of affordable housing.
Many of the people included in these figures go unseen and unheard and while he can’t change this single handedly, our CMO – Lee Alexander as will be giving up his time to raise funds for a worthy cause.
One night isn’t a lot,
but it can make a lot of difference to so many.
This year Lee will be participating in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout AU. On June 23rd, he will sleep out in the grounds of McDonalds Jones Stadium in Newcastle, to raise funds for food, shelter and support for people who are homeless or at risk.
Lee Alexander – CMO
” Working in the city, we witness social challenges like homelessness and poverty everyday. For me its a reminder that while life is not always easy for all of us – I am lucky, even in my hardest times, to have had regular meals and somewhere to stay. I try not to turn a blind eye to the challenges that others face but it can be hard to know how to help. That’s why this year i decided to give my time to Vinnies – to raise funds that they can direct where they are needed the most.“
Lee will get a just a small glimpse into what it’s like to sleep rough and will share his experiences with us in a future post.
What can I do ?
To help break the devastating cycle of homelessness, you can support Lee and Vinnies by making a donation. Even a small donation can make a huge difference to people who need it most.
