Coast Shelter Sleepout 2024 has raised more than $217,000 for the organisation’s essential services.
Held on Friday, August 2, at Industree Group Stadium, the event brought the community together to tackle the escalating issues of homelessness and domestic and family violence in the region.
Despite challenging fundraising conditions with the cost-of-living crisis, the event successfully highlighted the critical need for support and raised significant funds to aid vulnerable individuals.
This year’s sleepout saw significant participation with more than 120 attendees, including local business leaders, community members, Coast Shelter staff and volunteers.
The money raised will be directed towards Coast Shelter’s essential services and comprehensive support programs for those experiencing homelessness and domestic violence.
This year’s event was especially significant as recent data revealed a 25 per cent increase in rough sleepers on the Central Coast compared to last year.
In 2024, more than 1,500 individuals were reported to be homeless, up from about 1,200 in 2023.
This upward trend places the Central Coast among the top 10 regions in NSW for homelessness, reflecting the broader housing crisis affecting regional communities across the state.
Additionally, the region has witnessed a distressing rise in domestic and family violence, further heightening the need for comprehensive support services.
“Homelessness and domestic and family violence is a growing issue in our region, and the increased numbers this year highlight the urgent need for our services,” Coast Shelter CEO Lee Shearer said.
“The overwhelming support and participation in this year’s sleepout demonstrate that our community wants to make a difference.
“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and commitment of everyone involved.”
Throughout the night, participants heard powerful stories from individuals who have benefited from Coast Shelter’s services, shedding light on the challenges of homelessness and the transformative impact of community support.
While the Sleepout has concluded, the mission to end homelessness continues.
Coast Shelter encourages the community to stay engaged and support its ongoing efforts through donations, volunteering and advocacy.
“The success of the Coast Shelter Sleepout 2024 is testament to the power of community and the impact of collective action,” Shearer said.
“Together, we can continue to make a difference and work towards ending homelessness and domestic violence on the Central Coast.”