On Thursday 20 June, 28 Year 12 students and seven staff members gave up their warm beds in exchange for the concrete floors of the McAuley Quadrangle to raise money and awareness as part of the Vinnies Sleepout.
This event which runs annually requires students to raise funds through sponsorships that will go towards helping the homeless. The students and staff came together in solidarity to develop an understanding of what it's like to be homeless. This year, the money raised will be donated through Chris Christofi’s donation page. He is a successful businessman who participated in the CEO sleepout and for every dollar donated he will donate an additional 50 cents. Through sponsorship and generous donations from staff and students we raised over $1,600.
Below are some student reflectsion of this unforgettable experience.
Whilst the night was enjoyable to spend with friends and peers, it also provided a brief insight into the adversity faced by 1 in 200 Australians who sleeps rough without the comforts we all take for granted. — Matt Gamble
The Vinnies Sleepout was another amazing opportunity to continue building a strong comradery amongst our cohort, while offering a sobering reminder of the rough conditions some Australians must endure on a daily basis. I will always relish the experience so dearly, but most of all, I have developed a much deeper appreciation for the everyday necessities we tend to take for granted... especially my mattress. — Grace Staindl-Dymond
As a community, it’s good for us to spread awareness about the increasing homeless population in the Yarra Valley. My hope is to positively impact the amount of people sleeping rough and that we, as Mount Lilydale Mercy College community, can make a difference. — Jasmine McDine
