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Media Release 18 June 2010
CEOs brave the cold to put the heat on homelessness 116 business and community leaders woke up to the cold winds sweeping through Etihad Stadium at Victoria’s Vinnies CEO Sleepout this morning. Across Australia, 683 leaders slept out at state-based events raising over $2.6 million to help meet the increase in demand for homeless services. These influential leaders swapped their warm beds for a concrete landing for the night to gain a new appreciation for the 105,000 Australians who face homelessness each day. With 54 per cent of Australian homeless people in need of supported accommodation turned away – and in a period of economic uncertainty – the demand for services is greater than ever. A think-tank also helped provided fresh insights into homelessness by asking leaders to address the issue as if it were part of their business portfolio. Jane Nathan, the Vinnies CEO Sleepout Victorian Ambassador said that as well as raising awareness and important funds, the event also provided an opportunity to tap into the state’s brightest business minds. “Last night’s Victorian event not only raised $351,540 but physically and mentally challenged participants to step outside the comforts of their own home and consider the wider societal issues surrounding homelessness. It also prompted them to think about solutions to this growing issue. “St Vincent de Paul Society’s ultimate aim is not to continue service provision, but to put an end to homelessness altogether,” said Ms Nathan. The initiative first began as a local community venture in Sydney’s Parramatta in 2006 but was held in capital cities nationally for the first time this year. Victorians can still sponsor one of the leaders that took part in the event by visiting www.ceosleepout.org.au. ENDS For media enquiries, images and interview requests please contact: Lauren Coleman lcoleman@porternovelli.com.au 03 9289 9555 / 0413 254 545
Patrick McClelland pmcclelland@porternovelli.com.au 03 9289 9555 / 0409 499 419