Vinnies CEO Sleepout raises $8 million nationally, $2.7 million in NSW

More than $8 million has been raised as part of the 2023 Vinnies CEO Sleepout, which will enable the St Vincent de Paul Society to meet the growing demand for assistance across Australia.

Now in its 18th year, the Vinnies CEO Sleepout has raised more than $85 million since its beginnings in 2006.

New South Wales leaders from business, politics and the community raised $2.7 million at events held in Sydney, Newcastle, and Wollongong.

St Vincent de Paul Society NSW CEO, Yolanda Saiz, expressed her appreciation for the outpouring of support shown to assist people facing hardship and disadvantage.

“We’ve seen a growing number of people reach out to our services due to the rising cost of living and lack of affordable housing options, many of these for the first time,” said Ms Saiz.

“The funds raised through the Vinnies CEO Sleepout will enable the Society to meet the need that exists currently in the community and will tragically continue to grow over the coming months.

“In the short-term our services will be able to support people in crisis, however my hope is that the leaders from business, politics and the community who participated can take what they have heard from the night and advocate for long-term change.

“In the midst of so many people doing it tough right now, it is heartening to see such a generous display of goodwill from everyone who has donated and participated in the event this year.

“The Society will use the funds raised to support people experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic and family violence, receiving treatment for addiction, struggling with the cost-of-living, and much more.

“I am grateful to everyone who has made our 18th Vinnies CEO Sleepout a success,” said Ms Saiz.

St Vincent de Paul Society NSW State Council President, Paul Burton, highlighted the legacy of the Vinnies CEO Sleepout in its 18th year.

“The Vinnies CEO Sleepout is our largest fundraiser and plays a vital role in enabling the Society to meet the individual circumstances of people in their time of need,” said Mr Burton.

“When the Vinnies CEO Sleepout first raised just under $5,000 in 2006, few would have envisioned the lasting impact it would have on so many people.

“We’ve been able to make a difference to so many lives over the years and the success of this year’s event will ensure we can continue to do so for many more to come.

“I thank everyone who has donated and taken part in this year’s Vinnies CEO Sleepout,” said Mr Burton.

Figures from the most recent 2021 Census show that on any given night, in excess of 122,000 people nationwide have no permanent home. In NSW the number of people experiencing homelessness increased by 27% over the past decade to a total of 35,000.

Donations for the Vinnies CEO Sleepout remain open until 31 July and participants looking to take part in the 2024 Vinnies CEO Sleepout are able to pre-register at www.ceosleepout.org.au.