Four members of St Vincent de Paul Society's [Vinnies] St Therese Conference are set to join communities across the state for a virtual sleepout raising awareness of homelessness in regional areas.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The members will take part in the NSW Vinnies Community Sleepouts on Friday, October 23, raising funds for select community programs to combat homelessness.
Vinnies' St Therese Conference president Graham Clayton said funds raised by the Bathurst event will go towards John Therry House in Kelso, which is set to become a homeless and women's refuge.
"It's a completely virtual event, and there will be sleepouts happening all across the state," Mr Clayton said.
"The funds we raise will go towards items to furnish John Therry House to make it more homely for people who need to stay."
Mr Clayton said there's 10 to 20 homeless people in Bathurst, with around 60 to 80 couch-surfing.
"We assist local homeless people through the provision of food, blankets, bill assistance and motel accommodation if their situation is incredibly dire," he said.
"Our conference also liaises with a host of government and non-profit agencies who help the homeless get back on their feet."
Mr Clayton said the Bathurst participants have set a fundraising goal of $10,000, and have raised close to $300 so far.
"All donations are welcome, and will go to great use to provide more comfort for the homeless," he said.
To donate to the fundraiser, visit my.fundraise.vinniesnsw.org.au/vinnies-community-sleepout-bathurst-2020.