ANU students and staff sacrifice a night of comfort to make a difference in their local community

ANU students and staff sacrifice a night of comfort to make a difference in their local community.

Yesterday, 16 August over 70 students and staff from ANU brought home the realities of homelessness by participating in the 2023 Vinnies on Campus ANU Sleepout. In addition to raising funds this Sleepout aimed at raising awareness around the issues that are affecting young people in our community.

The event started off with a pop-up fair including relevant services for young people, a Vinnies shop, fun activities, and dinner for participants. Following a panel discussion at 7:00pm featuring experts on Youth issues, prizes and capped off by the big sleepout.

Claudia Petrie, student at ANU and participant of this year’s Sleepout said, “I'm optimistic that our ANU community can bring about meaningful change by spreading awareness and raising vital funds for Vinnies. Among those seeking homelessness support, three out of every ten are under 18. I hope that as a community we can help to shift this statistic and create a better future for these young individuals”.

Together students and staff raised over $16,000 and the top fundraising team was John’s College. The funds raised will go towards Vinnies on Campus Home visitation service. This service is run for people in crisis in the suburbs around ANU. Volunteers will support those in need with a visit to their homes and provide material aid such as food vouchers, petrol vouchers, help with medical costs and other important needs.

Jordan Thuma, Youth Liaison Officer at Vinnies Canberra/Goulburn said, “A night under the stars may sound enjoyable but it is a tough reality for many in our community. Every year, we are so amazed to see the support of young people who come together, stand in solidarity to actively make a positive change.”

If you would like to support their fundraising efforts, please visit: https://shoutforgood.com/fundraisers/VinniesonCampusANUSleepout2023

Interview available with:

• Jordan Thuma – Youth Liaison Officer, Vinnies Canberra/Goulburn
• Katie McNamara – President of Vinnies on Campus and student at ANU

Access images here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1AvyFkWPNpeBknWf-ggwvGkYcMIMJE9dJ?usp=sharing 

Media contact: Nikita Nair nikita.nair@vinnies.org.au or 0410 359 420