Filthy Rich and Sleeping Out

On any given night, 116,000 people are experiencing homelessness across Australia. In SBS’s Filthy Rich & homeless, five high-profile Australians hand over their phones, wallets and keys for 10 days on the street and in emergency accommodation. While participants on the show are monitored and filmed to ensure their safety, a luxury not afforded to those without a secure home, the show helps shine a light on the severity of the crisis, and helps break down misconceptions surrounding homelessness.

On the show, Dr Andrew Rochford, emergency doctor and television personality, briefly experiences life at Vinnies homeless service, John Purcell House, the only crisis accommodation service for single men in the Shoalhaven region of NSW.

“From the moment I stepped through that door, I was treated with respect and care,” Dr Rochford says, “It was a complete shock to find myself in such a safe and supportive environment after sleeping on the streets of Sydney.”

The respite of those two nights inspired Dr Rochford to sign up as host of the 2020 Vinnies CEO Sleepout, as part of an ongoing commitment to support people experiencing homelessness.

“Experiencing that transformation made me realise what a lifesaver these Vinnies services are for people who would otherwise be left to their own devices.” Dr Rochford explains. “And the Vinnies CEO Sleepout is absolutely crucial to raising the funds needed to keep these services running.”

Vinnies CEO Sleepout raises funds for dozens of our homelessness services like John Purcell House, supporting hundreds of men, women and children each year. Since its inception 15 years ago, the event has raised nearly $60 million for shelter, food, medicine and one-on-one support for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

This year’s Vinnies CEO Sleepout will look different to previous years’, with the event moving online to allow for physical distancing. On Thursday 18 June, participants will sleep on their couch, in the car or out in the backyard, tuning into a live-streamed broadcast across the country.

“If you’re in a position to contribute financially, now is the time to pitch in your support”

If watching Filthy Rich & homeless has inspired you to make a difference, donate today.

Filthy Rich & Homeless, 9-11 June on SBS #FilthyRichHomeless