WA's Media industry raised $60,000 at the inaugural Oasis Sleepout .
More than 45 representatives from media and creative took up the challenge on March 28 to join the committee’s first Oasis Sleepout and were tasked with raising $500 each, making the target total $30,000.
Oasis chairperson and Carat WA client partner Michelle Testa wanted to immerse the industry in an experience that is all too common and allow The Salvation Army to demonstrate a taste of what it’s like for homeless in Australia.
"What started as a small idea to continue to connect our event to its core purpose, quickly became the most talked about event in the industry – and for good reason.
"Waking up this morning and knowing I could have a hot shower and grab a strong coffee before retiring to bed tonight, is not the luxury those living rough have.
“I’m absolutely blown away with the generosity of those who did not hesitate to sleep out and for the Salvation Army in creating such an immersive experience, to have a night in their shoes."
The Salvation Army’s Guy Rees said nearly 40,000 children and young people have nowhere to live across Australia, around 9,500 are aged between 15 and 17.
"Over 30% of the children and young people identify as First Nations," he said.
"These 40,000 children and young people have presented at homelessness services across the country with over 44% accessing homelessness services are still homeless after initial support."
The initial $30k was reached with a week to go, another $10k added in 24 hours before the sleepout with participants arriving to their ‘home’ for the night, with a total of $50k.
Pushing the donation over $60,000 was a donation from major sponsor, Crown Resorts and their Foundation, donating $100 to each of the 47 that slept out.
"The Crown Resorts Foundation takes immense pride in once again supporting the Oasis Ball, The Salvation Army, and the media, marketing, and advertising industry of Perth who slept out for Oasis," said Kelly Townson, group general manager of Crown Resorts Foundation.
"It is truly inspiring to witness the collective desire of so many individuals to give back to our community and we are delighted to be able to make a $100 donation to support each of the 47 sleepout participants.
These funds go directly to The Salvation Army for The Oasis Project.
Rees said WA youth service provides invaluable holistic support to children and young people experiencing these challenges.
"We provide crisis support, transitional housing and pathways into community housing and private rental, education and training," he said.
"Our model of care 'journey to independence' enables us to walk alongside young people meeting them where they are and journeying together to a safe and brighter future."
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