The Vinnies CEO Sleepout will happen on the 18th June. It is in its fifteenth year, but this year will face the challenge of Covid-19.
The Sleepout happens every year on one of the coldest and longest nights of the year. Hundreds of CEO’s, business owners and government leaders sleep outdoors to raise money for the many Australians who experience homelessness.
In 2019, the Vinnies CEO Sleepout raised $7.9 million for people experiencing homelessness or people at risk of homelessness.
This year, the Sleepout will be transformed into an interactive online event. Participants will be asked to nominate an alternate sleeping option and then share the experience through an interactive live streaming program.
Many people have benefited from this valuable program. Here’s the story of just a few.
Joe
Joe was battling drug addiction and facing homelessness. He approached Vinnies seeking help with his rehabilitation.
Vinnies found Joe a place in a backpackers hostel before securing him short term accommodation. Joe was provided with a safe place to sleep, therefore reducing his exposure to drugs and violence.
Mat
When Mat was 12 years old, his parents separated and he eventually ended up alone on the street at the age of 16. Mathew ended up battling addiction, which lead him to engage in criminal activity.
At one point, Mat considered suicide.
Mat encountered a Vinnies volunteer who offered Mat food vouchers and helped him to get into rehab.
Mat is now a senior executive and has takin part in the Vinnes CEO Sleepout to support people who are in the position he was once in.
Through the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, Vinnies are working to break the cycle of homelessness.