Locals will be braving the cold to address homelessness in regional Australia through the Armidale Vinnies Community Sleepout 2024 at the end of August.
The Vinnies Community Sleepout aims to shine a spotlight on the issue of homelessness by bringing together community groups to experience a glimpse of “sleeping rough” for one night whilst raising crucial funds and awareness for vital Vinnies Services and Programs.
Dedicated locals will gather with beanies at the ready at Sport UNE on Friday, August 30, for an evening of solidarity and fundraising. They have already raised $5,520 toward a goal of $31,000, including generous donations from Roberts and Morrow, Armidale Rotary AM and the Scott Group. The Servies will also be matching some donations next month to help them reach their goal.
“Registrations are going great with 18 incredible Armidalians putting their hands up to brave the cold for one night,” said Nirmal Nanayakkara, Member and Community Engagement Coordinator with St Vincent de Paul here in Armidale.
“We are hoping that many more will do the same in the coming weeks.”
Nirmal would like to have at least 30 people participate in the sleepout this year, and keep the event growing.
Funds raised from the sleepout will support the Vinnies Start Fresh Community Connections Program, aimed at empowering individuals engaged with Freeman House in Armidale. This initiative helps participants achieve recovery goals by reintegrating them into the local community, fostering new social networks, and securing stable living environments for themselves and their families.
Garry McMillan, a former resident of Freeman House will be speaking at the Sleepout on his personal experience of homelessness in Armidale. Gary spent three months sleeping in his car in the middle of winter 2022 after a decline in his mental health resulted in the loss of employment and eviction from his home.
Gary explained that with the support of Freeman House, he was able to find safe and secure housing.
“Without their help, I don’t know where I’d be,” Gary said.
Participants were encouraged to register, donate, or sponsor others at www.armidale.vinnies.org.au/communitysleepout.
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