Vinnies Ceo Sleepout In Young Raises Over $65,800

With just three pieces of cardboard and a sleeping bag to keep them warm, 42 inspiring local leaders gave up the comfort of their warm beds to sleep on cold concrete at the Young railway station on Thursday, June 20.

It was the first time Vinnies had hosted its CEO Sleepout fundraiser in Young and they raised a whopping $65,800.

The top fundraiser on the night was awarded to Andrew Bailey.

The funds raised by these local leaders, thanks to the support of the community, will go towards tailored relief and crisis support for people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness in the NSW Western region, from Tumut to Young to Lake Cargelligo.

The event brought together participants from numerous professional backgrounds with attendees from Flemings Real Estate, Label A, Young High, Hennessy Catholic College, PCYC’s Karen Clark, Hilltops Council, Big W, Altius Group, Young TAFE, St Anne’s Temora, Pointsbuild Pty Limited and Vinnies Western Region Support staff.

As the evening progressed with a modest meal of soup and bread rolls, participants had their first taste of what it was like to sleep rough.

They also tuned into the CEO Sleepout event virtually being held at Australian Parliament House, as part of the national program of events happening around Australia on the same night, where participants had the opportunity to hear from a person who has faced homelessness, gaining insight into his lived experience.

Based in the capital, Vinnies Canberra/Goulburn’s network of volunteers provide assistance in the Far South Coast of NSW, the Snowy Mountains and NSW Western Region.

It’s not too late to make a tax-deductible donation, just call 13 18 12 or visit https://www.ceosleepout.org.au/event/act and search for your favourite leader in your region.

Fundraising for Vinnies CEO Sleepout will continue until July 31.

St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all participants, community and sponsors, including Hilltops Council, Hennessy Catholic School, Rapid Relief Team, Donges SUPA IGA Young, COS and The Daly Family from Curtin for their generosity.

• Topics:

• Fundraising and Charitable Causes