More than 3500 vulnerable homeless or those at risk of homelessness gathered at Sydney’s Town Hall on Tuesday June 3rd for a day of practical support, entertainment and care.
The event was organised by Sydney Homeless Connect, a volunteer run not-for-profit organisation who offers services and support to improve the lives of Sydney’s homeless.
Attendees were introduced to housing, health, employment, social, financial and legal services available to them.
Throughout the day organisers provided 4000 hot lunches, 30 dental procedures, 220 massages and 400 haircuts.
Sydney Homeless Connect Co-founder, Andrew Everingham, spoke movingly of the outpouring from the community to support and lead change to improve and positively impact the lives around us.
“This year we’ve seen a record number of people in need but we have also seen a large amount of support from the community in the form of donations and services.
“Each year, more and more volunteers are willing to rollup their sleeves and get involved in anyway they can.
“We’re connecting people and seeing action in outcomes.”
Sydney Homeless Connect Co-founder Peter Durie said “The challenge is that every year there are more and more people who need help.
“We aim to plant the seeds of opportunity for tomorrow at Sydney Homeless Connect.”
Minister for Communities and Citizenship Victor Dominello, who attended the Opening Ceremony, said “New South Wales is proudly home to over two million volunteers and this initiative demonstrates the power of volunteers and community organisations to make a difference to lives of the most vulnerable through simple acts of generosity.”
The sixth annual Sydney Homeless Connect is scheduled for June 2 2015.
