Sleeping Rough Raises Much Needed Funds

For many of us it's hard to imagine sleeping rough, with no bed, no sheets no shelter. Every night this is a reality for thousands of people experiencing homelessness in Australia. 

On Tuesday 20th June 2023, over 100 CEOs sleep out in Brisbane without shelter, on the longest night of the year, to help end homelessness. More than 500 registered for the CEO Sleepout across the state. Merlo provided our coffee van on the night, in support of St Vinnies and to keep the CEOs and volunteers warm and caffeinated.

Almost $1.8 million was raised across the state through the event to support Vinnie's homelessness services such as emergency accommodation, food, and other essentials. The funds will also support the start of the 500 homes in 5 years project.

Providing a Safe Place to Call Home

Over 20,000 Queenslanders face homelessness every night with many thousands on the waitlist for social housing. St Vinnies vision is to build a minimum of 500 affordable new dwellings in the next five years. This project aims to double the amount of housing stock available to help Queenslanders in need.

Currently, there are not enough safe places to house the homeless, the new project is aimed at eliminating this issue. The additional social and affordable housing will help hundreds of struggling Queenslanders unable to find or afford housing in their local communities. Construction is expected to begin at the start in early 2024.

In 2024 the CEO Sleepout will be held on Thursday 24th June. If you are interested joining this worthy cause, you can register to be involved here.