From our Group CEO: For a good cause
Imagine not having a safe place to sleep every night. For more than 1600 members of our community, this is their reality.
A big issue in Tasmania is that much of our homelessness goes unseen. It’s not just experienced by those sleeping out on the street. It’s a distressing cycle for people who are living in temporary/emergency accommodation, couch surfing or using improvised shelters such as a car, tent or caravan park.
In Tasmania throughout 2019 and 2020, St Vincent de Paul Society provided 25,381 emergency relief services, such as food, clothing, shelter, and assistance paying an essential bill. Devastatingly, 74% of those seeking the help of Vinnies did so because they had nothing to eat.
At RACT we’re here for all Tasmanians, not just motorists. We want to help build better, more compassionate communities – the places where our members and staff live, work, play and raise their families. Taking part in initiatives such as the Vinnies CEO Sleepout is just one way we can amplify the voices of those who need support.
The money raised goes directly to helping people who are experiencing or are at risk of experiencing homelessness by providing beds, food, support programs and emergency assistance.
There’s no substitute for walking in someone else’s shoes for a little while to understand their perspective. Last year was my first Vinnies CEO Sleepout and also my first winter in Tasmania. It really highlighted just how hard life on the street is for Tasmanians, especially during our coldest months.
It’s an incredible privilege to be involved again this year and I encourage everyone who can to dig deep and show their support for the amazing work of Vinnies.
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We're proud to announce that Mark is Tasmania's State Ambassador for the 2021 Vinnies CEO Sleepout on 17 June.