Braving the cold temperatures, the group bunkered down in makeshift cardboard tents alongside the Mayor at Bankstown Airport on Friday Night.
With homelessness having doubled in Canterbury Bankstown to almost 2,700 since 2011, the inaugural Mayor’s Lights Out Sleepout raised around $28,500 which will go towards vital services to support those in need across our City.
Those sleeping out were treated to a humbling meal of sausages and rice and a bowl of hot soup as the temperatures dropped to a low of seven degrees.
“It was a pretty tough night as the cold really set in,” Mayor El-Hayek said.
“You don’t really know what it’s like to sleep rough, especially during winter, until you give it a go.
“It was a real eye opening experience for all who slept out and a wake up call to do what we can to end homelessness.”
The Mayor thanked those who helped make the event a success, including Aeria Management Group CEO Daniel Jarosch, City of Canterbury Bankstown Business and Engagement Manager Mike Thomas, Community Safety and Crime Prevention Officer Stephen Williamson, PolAir representatives and Mission Australia State Leader, Greater Western Sydney, Saeli Masina and Program Manager Ludmila Klianev.
He also thanked the Exodus Foundation and the Padstow Rotary Club for providing meals and refreshments.
Donations are still being accepted at cb.city/MayorsSleepout.
