A sleepout challenge in Bega has raised enough money to purchase a two-bedroom unit for the region's homeless, and more.
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The Sleep On It Challenge finally managed to be held following two postponements in late 2021 due to COVID restrictions.
And while Friday night's weather also made the evening somewhat uncomfortable, that was in keeping with the whole premise of fundraising to support those sleeping rough in our region.
As the 45 sleepers bedded down for the night, the fundraising tally topped $30,000.
At the time of writing, it's at $30,731 - To donate, click here
As Mick Brosnan from the SJA highlighted during the event, his organisation is able to source units for $27,990 each, which are then placed in suitable locations with council and other's support.
He explained that Same Day Granny Flats were 6x6m expandable containers with two bedrooms, a bathroom and a kitchen.
"We are going to put a roof over them, a verandah out the front and give some dignity to our homeless."
The SJA has been running a campaign - It's Up To Us - to source and establish homes for the Bega Valley's homeless.
So far it has raised more than $150,000.
He said on the night of the Sleep On It Challenge, there were 20 people making use of 14 caravans purchased and kitted out by the SJA.
However, Mr Brosnan also said there was little point in focusing on the number of homeless in our region "as one is too many".
Key organisers Kylie Furnell and Kass Fenton from South East Women and Children's Services said they were so grateful for the support shown and the amount raised by Friday night's event.
It began with a host of local musicians taking the stage while a couple of food vans provided dinner.
Then at 8pm the doors of the Bega Showground pavilion were closed and those staying the night got prepared for a relatively uncomfortable evening on the hard floor.
Those taking part included all three tiers of government, with federal member Kristy McBain, state Bega MP Michael Holland, mayor Russell Fitzpatrick and councillors Helen O'Neil, Cathy Griff and Karen Wright also rolling out a sleeping bag.
A limited "budget" of tokens could be used to purchase a sleeping space (with a cardboard underlay at an additional cost), toiletries, snacks and a hot drink, with hopefully enough tokens remaining to grab a cooked breakfast the following morning thanks to the Salvation Army Bega.
"We felt it was important to hold this event, not only to raise awareness of homelessness but also to raise money for the Social Justice Advocates - they are providing the infrastructure for people to live in," Ms Fenton said.
"Young people in our community matter and we're going to stand up for them and be their advocates," Ms Furnell added.
To learn more of the support SEWACS provides, click here