Sleepout to raise funds for essential homelessness services

THE FLETCHER Street Cottage is holding the Big Byron Sleepout on August 17 to raise vital funds for critical frontline services for the homeless community.

Recent data from NSW Government Communities and Justice on homelessness in NSW shows the Byron Shire has the largest cohort of locals sleeping rough in the state, higher than the City of Sydney.

The survey counted 300 rough sleepers across the Byron Shire in February 2023, and numbers have surged. The Fletcher Street Cottage’s dedicated team works tirelessly to meet the needs of locals who are doing it tough, with essential services and practical support such as food, showers, laundry, social work, support services and community connection.

The Big Byron Sleepout aims to raise $70k with 100 sleepers/fundraisers sleeping rough for the night. Participants can sign up with a $100 donation and are asked to recruit sponsors to raise another $400 minimum.

The Bangalow CWA will provide hot soup at the event HQ, The Book Room. Sleepers must bring warm clothes, a sleeping bag, a mat, and wet weather gear if needed. Fundraisers will sleep in groups along Fletcher St and reassemble for coffee and breakfast in the morning.

The Big Byron Sleepout runs from Saturday, August 17, at 5.00 pm until Sunday 18, at 8.00 am.

For details on how to join in or support the event, visit www.bigbyronsleepout.com