Three years after COVID-19 forced the Vinnies CEO Sleepout to transition to a virtual event, the Memorial Drive Tennis Centre – now known as The Drive – finally welcomes South Australian business and community leaders who will be sleeping out on Centre Court to raise funds and awareness for homelessness. The event, which is the St Vincent de Paul Society’s largest fundraiser, will be held on Thursday 22 June.
The Drive, which at that time had recently undergone the stage one redevelopment to install a roof canopy, was set to host the event in 2020 before a decision was made to move the event online. Participants took part by sleeping on couches, backyards or in cars – three common places where people experiencing homelessness might sleep.
Recently released Census data shows there has been an increase in homelessness across the country, with more than 122,000 Australians to be considered homeless. In South Australia, 7,500 South Australians are affected, including a growing number of children.
However, St Vincent de Paul Society SA CEO Evelyn O’Loughlin believes the real number of people experiencing homelessness is likely higher, given the data is now almost two years old, and people living in crowded or improvised dwellings, or in caravan parks, were not represented.
“We would hear from a number of people each week who have moved into a caravan, or who are living with family and friends. Typically, these would be short-term arrangements, however the current economic climate and rental shortage means there is simply nowhere else for them to go.
“And that’s why the Vinnies CEO Sleepout is more important than ever, with the funds that are raised crucial to our ability to support the growing number people at risk of or facing homelessness. People who access the Fred’s Van meal service, our Men’s and Women’s Crisis Centres, the Vinnies Migrant and Refugee Centre and the Vinnies Assistance service will all benefit from the generosity of Vinnies CEO Sleepout participants and their supporters.”
Ms O’Loughlin, who commenced as CEO of the organisation in September 2022, will be taking part in her first Vinnies CEO Sleepout.
“I can’t say I’m looking forward to sleeping out, but in my role it’s important to try and gain some insight into what it means to experience homelessness, even if just for one night. I welcome the partnership with Tennis SA and look forward to South Australia’s business and community leaders joining in solidarity to shine a light on the issues leading to homelessness,” she said.
“Tennis SA is pleased to be providing The Drive as the venue for the 2023 Vinnies CEO Sleepout,” Tennis SA CEO Debbie Sterrey said.
“I am also looking forward to being involved and whilst I think it will be a challenging night, I hope that this small move can help to bring awareness to homelessness and make a difference to those who are experiencing this situation firsthand.
“We look forward to welcoming everyone to The Drive on 22 June for this very worthy cause.”
To register for the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, visit www.ceosleepout.org.au or click here to donate.
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