Vinnies volunteers dress big for homelessness

MARINE Parade in Ocean Grove was turned into a temporary catwalk when Vinnies volunteers strutted their stuff in the fight against homelessness.

Vinnies volunteers in Ocean Grove raised funds last Friday (June 2) for this year’s CEO Sleepout, holding a store Fashion Parade & VIP Night Fundraiser.

 

Store manager Kerry Collins said dozens of residents attended on the night, bringing new life into the store and providing for a lively atmosphere.

“We were all excited and we were all buzzing on the night,” Ms Collins said.

“It was great, the feel was really good and for the people that came in on the night, they enjoyed it and that was the main thing.”

Through fundraising efforts on the night and in the month leading up to the Parade, Ms Collins said residents were able to raise a tad over $310, all of which will go to Vinnies CEO Sleepout on June 22 in Port Melbourne.

The CEO Sleepout facilitates hundreds of CEOs, business owners and community leaders sleep outdoors, supporting Australians who are experiencing and are at-risk of homelessness.

Victoria has raised over $500,000 so far in 2023 for the CEO Sleepout.

“I’m hoping the event will get people talking about the store and come in,” Ms Collins said.

“We’re hoping that residents who didn’t know we were here will learn that we are and spread the word about the store having a great vibe again.”

Volunteers are always welcome to assist with the daily operations of Vinnies Ocean Grove.

Ms Collins said the easiest way to express interest in volunteering at Vinnies is to walk into the store on 18 Marine Parade, Ocean Grove and speak to someone.