Coast Shelter launches new format charity sleepout

Coast Shelter is calling on Coasties to join the cause and sleep Rough4aNight in a sleepout with a difference.

2020 was to be the 10th anniversary of Coast Shelter’s regular Million Star Sleepout, but thanks to COVID-19 things will be a little different this year.

The popular event has seen hundreds of high profile executives, entrepreneurs and business teams sleep out under the stars over the years, all to raise money to support Coast Shelters invaluable homelessness and crisis support work.

It’s also credited with opening participants eyes to some of the stark realities of homelessness.

To minimize health risks and to comply with current biosecurity restrictions this year’s sleepout has been revamped into Rough4aNight.

Under the new format Coasties are being encouraged to sleep rough in safe locations around the region to mimic the homeless experience.

Coast Shelter CEO, Rachel Willis, said the new format meant everyone could participate and help fundraise to put an end to homelessness and domestic and family violence.

“Coast Shelter needs your help and we would love for all Coasties to join in, to get an experience of sleeping rough, to share your stories of gratitude and to help us raise the funds we need to continue our work to provide safe homes for youths, women and children fleeing domestic violence and to provide services and meals to homeless people on the Coast,” Willis said.

“We are reaching out to all and asking people to sleep Rough4aNight by pitching a tent in the backyard, sleeping in their cars or on the couch in your living room.

“Corporations and businesses can also create a team sleep-out in their work carpark, garage or garden and we encourage everyone to register and create an event to remember,” Willis said.

Rough4aNight will take place across the Coast on August 9.

Anyone interested in taking part or learning more about the fundraiser can do so by visiting the Rough4aNight website.

Source:
Press release, Jun 24
Rachel Willis, Coast Shelter