REIWA's 2025 Sleeping Bag Appeal has come to a close, with over 500 sleeping bags, blankets, coats and scarves collected to support Western Australians sleeping rough this Winter.
This year, 28 REIWA member agencies, including REIWA House, took part in the appeal and opened their doors as collection points throughout June.
REIWA President Suzanne Brown said the appeal's success was thanks to the efforts of members and the generosity of the wider community.
"Year after year, our members continue to show that real estate is about more than property - it's about people and looking out for those who need assistance," she said.
"As professionals in the business of housing, we have the privilege of helping people secure a roof over their head, something that should be a basic right and not a luxury.
"Unfortunately for some, the lack of available housing or impact of underlying mental health challenges means this simply isn't possible. Initiatives like this remind us of the human face behind the housing crisis, and why our compassion matters.
"It's easy to take a warm bed for granted. Through this appeal, we're able to do something small but meaningful for people facing cold nights without shelter."
The Salvation Army's State Communications Manager Warren Palmer said the demand for support remains high, particularly in the colder months.
"We have several frontline services providing support to the rough sleeping community, those sleeping in vehicles or inadequate/overcrowded dwellings," he said.
"In Winter, there is increased demand for sleeping items. The generous response from REIWA's Community REInvest members and those who have contributed will enable our services to effectively meet the needs of the clients throughout the colder months and will make a significant difference."
To help wrap up the appeal, Instatruck donated a day of their time to collect boxes from member agencies, making the process smoother and more efficient.
Donated items will now be distributed by The Salvation Army to people experiencing homelessness and those without safe or stable accommodation.
Financial donations can still be made to The Salvation Army's Red Shield Appeal.
To learn more about REIWA's partnership with The Salvation Army, visit the Community REInvest page.
