Homelessness is an issue that’s close to home for all of us in the Yarra Ranges.

The issue has grown in our region over the last decade – partly because of the increase in housing prices and the reduction of affordable rentals.

The less talked about side effects of the COVID-19 pandemic – job uncertainty, worsened mental health issues, substance dependency, and family unrest – have seen more people access support and emergency relief services than ever before.

That’s why our CEO Sue Sestan is sleeping out again this year.

Sue will sleep outside in the cold for the Vinnies CEO Sleepout on June 17, alongside hundreds of CEOS and community and government leaders.

Her aim? To put a spotlight on the issue and to raise funding for essential services for Australians experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

“Last year’s Sleepout was an eye opener for me. I was awake all night, aware of every small noise and rustle. It was cold and I felt very vulnerable. But I was safe in my own backyard. Over 116,000 Australians will be homeless tonight. And many people in the Yarra Ranges don’t have access to secure or affordable housing,” says Sue.

Thankfully, there are some fantastic support services in our area.

Inspiro provides low cost health and support services to people at risk of homelessness in the Yarra Ranges. We also run a No Interest Loans Scheme in partnership with Good Shepherd Youth and Family Services to provide loan funds to low income families.

“While there are wonderful organisations and volunteers working to help, we can always do more. Vinnies CEO Sleepout does a great job of raising money to provide food and accommodation to people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.”

Help Sue raise $5000 for homelessness

Anyone can sponsor Sue’s CEO sleepout. Funds go directly towards individual support and services for the people who need them most.

Sue tells us,“Homelessness is closer to home than most of us realise, and it can happen to any of us. If you’d like to help kick homelessness to the curb, why not sponsor me this year or encourage your workplace leaders to take part in Vinnies CEO Sleepout.”

Your money goes towards:

• Bed nights for people experiencing homelessness
• Food items through support centres
• Ongoing individual support programs
• Emergency assistance and home visits

Please reach out to us if you or someone you know needs a helping hand.