Time sure flies when you’re having fun. As Summer very slowly starts to creep away on the Gold Coast, our directors find themselves preparing to sleep outside on the coldest and longest night of the year in support of homelessness. In 2023, the cost of living crisis and the housing crisis in our city continues to place pressure on our community, leaving many without a safe place to sleep at night.
It’s a cause our Director, Colin Wheeler, has been supporting for seven years and counting, playing an integral part in bringing Vinnies CEO Sleepout to the Gold Coast. During this time, we have seen a real impact from the funds raised in our local community as every dollar stays on the coast to go towards homelessness support and prevention. So far, the sleepout has funded three projects: Rendu House, The Hub, and the Cornerstone Program.
Rendu House is a local unit block providing accommodation for vulnerable and at-risk women over 60 – the fastest-growing group demographic to experience homelessness in Australia.
The Hub is a central location that provides direct assistance to the Gold Coasters that need it. These support services are a joint effort between Vinnies and other organisations to effectively provide what is required for the individuals who come through The Hub.
The Cornerstone Homelessness Support Services Program supports those who are marginalised, homeless, or at risk of becoming homeless. Based on early intervention and prevention, the Cornerstone Program connects vulnerable individuals with support workers to sustainable independent housing. Working with local community organisations, the Cornerstone Program is able to provide access to accommodation, employment services, mental health support, referrals to drug and alcohol services, budgeting, and more.
We are looking forward to supporting Vinnies again this year on 22 June. Our Directors, Colin Wheeler and Alan Thomspon, will sleep rough outside on a piece of cardboard at CBUS Super Stadium. Alongside other business leaders, Colin and Alan will get a cup of soup for dinner before finding a nice patch of concrete to settle down on. It’s a tiny taste of life on the streets, and whilst it doesn’t compare to the true situation, we know their small sacrifice of a good night’s sleep will create a real impact for those who need it.
Stay updated on our fundraising journey on our Facebook and LinkedIn – connect with us to follow along and see what Vinnies CEO Sleepout is all about.
Learn more, donate, or register to join the sleepout at Vinnies CEO Sleepout Gold Coast.
