Vinnies sent out a huge thank you this morning to 1,550 business and community leaders who participated overnight in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, as well as everyone who donated to the cause.
The event raised an incredible $5.09 million nationally, doubling the charity's original goal of $2.4 million for the event. The funds will go to homelessness services run by the St Vincent de Paul Society across the country, providing shelter, food, clothing and other support for people experiencing homelessness, or at imminent risk of losing their home.
'We are incredibly grateful for the enormous show of support for the 2020 Vinnies CEO Sleepout, which far exceeded our expectations in this unique environment,' said Toby oConnor, CEO of the St Vincent de Paul Society National Council.
'We know this is a hard time for people financially and, like many charities, we've seen donations slow over the past few months. We had to move the Vinnies CEO Sleepout online in response to social-distancing requirements.
'This year's event took place in a very different environment and it was an exciting new experience for all involved. It's great that our participants embraced the experience and ensured its success,' Mr oConnor said.
Vinnies CEO Sleepout participants watched a live-streamed broadcast from 7:30 to 9:30pm on Thursday night, featuring a look at Vinnies' services as well as the stories of people who have experienced homelessness. They then 'slept out' on couches, in cars and in backyards across the country.
'The generous contribution of our participants and supporters means Vinnies can continue to provide clean, comfortable, welcoming places where people facing homelessness can find support,' Mr oConnor said.
The highest fundraiser of the year, for the fifth year in a row, was Nick Reade, CEO of BankSA and State General Manager at Westpac SA/NT/WA, raising an incredible $225,015.
It's not too late to donate to help people experiencing homelessness. Visit www.ceosleepout.org.au to make a donation.
