Tonight I will be joining just over 100 SA CEOs and community leaders in the Vinnies SA CEO Sleepout. If you look out your window you will see that we are in for a cold, wet night. Fortunately for me it is only one evening sleeping rough in the stands of the Adelaide Oval armed with a pillow, sleeping bag and piece of cardboard. For too many others, it is a way of life, sleeping in parks, shelters or the back of a car.
If homelessness was no longer an issue in SA, then we would not need to raise funds and continue to build awareness through activities like these, but sadly in 2024 we still see it on our streets and in our communities.
If you can spare a few dollars to make a donation to this cause by sponsoring me here at CEO SLEEPOUT — Andrew Kay you can be assured that your money will help make a difference for people like Gerry.
The cost-of-living crisis meant Gerry was forced to skip meals. He wasn’t able to make ends meet, which meant that food became a luxury. Some days he didn’t eat at all. It’s confronting to think about. Especially knowing how many more people there are in the same boat as Gerry.
Gerry is now able to get hampers and food vouchers from Vinnies because of the funds raised by people who are donating to the Vinnies CEO Sleepout.
That support made all the difference to Gerry. He said:
“I like to cook. I make spaghetti bolognese with the hampers or a tuna and veggie bake that lasts a few days, or I freeze the leftovers. I am much more energetic now. I’m eating three meals a day and going for walks daily too. I feel good and gained a bit of weight.”
Gerry’s life changed because someone like you generously donated towards the Vinnies CEO Sleepout.
There are many more people like Gerry who need that support.
Of course, all donations of $2 or more are tax deductible which may also be on your mind at this time of the year.
Thank you,
Andrew Kay, CEO South Australian Business Chamber
