Tweed Heads residents urged to join community sleepout to combat homelessness

VINNIES is calling on residents of Tweed Heads to spend a night in the cold to raise awareness and funds for homelessness through the NSW Vinnies Community Sleepout at Fred’s Place on 30 August.

The rising cost of living and the housing crisis have exacerbated homelessness across Australia, with more than 122,000 people lacking a safe place to sleep each night.

Tweed Shire Mayor Chris Cherry said she was taking part to shine a spotlight on homelessness and raise much-needed funds for Vinnies NSW.

“Unfortunately, homelessness in our community is not getting better and services like Fred’s Place need all the help we can give,” Cr Cherry said.

“In these uncertain times I find myself increasingly grateful for the security in housing I have. Sleeping rough for one night only gives a tiny glimpse into life on the street.

“Anything you can give to support those in need is much appreciated.”

NSW has the highest number of homeless individuals, over 35,000, many of whom are seeking help from Vinnies for the first time.

Vinnies is urging the community to participate in the sleepout to spotlight the issue and gather funds for local residents in need.

Participants will sleep on a piece of cardboard, receive a light dinner, and experience a night of discomfort to better understand the harsh realities faced by the homeless.

St Vincent de Paul Society NSW chief executive Yolanda Saiz said there were many people doing it tough.

“Our services are seeing surging levels of demand, including many people who have never needed support previously, and this result will ensure that we can meet this need now and going forward,” Ms Saiz said.

Tweed Shire has some of the highest rates of homelessness in NSW.

Many local people, including women, men, young people, and families, live in poverty without access to basic necessities, impacting their dignity, health, and prospects.

Fred’s Place, a community hub, offers crucial support to those experiencing or at risk of homelessness, seeing 80-125 people arrive daily for help and serving up to 200 meals every day.

By registering to sleep out and fundraising, community members will support Vinnies programs in Tweed Heads.

The NSW Vinnies Community Sleepouts will also be held in Albury, Armidale, Wagga Wagga, and Western Sydney on 30 August.

For more information or to register, search Vinnies Community Sleepout 2024.