Richmond Lions Invites You To A Cold Night Out In Aid Of Homeless

Do you think you could leave your warm, comfy bed for one winter night sleeping rough?

No?

What about if it was for a really good cause?

Richmond Lions Club is hosting their first ever winter sleep out at Richmond Oval on Saturday, July 27 commencing at 7 pm to raise money for, and awareness of, homelessness.

If you are one of the brave souls that has it in them to spend the whole night out in the cold, Richmond Lions Club President, Scott Hinks said you’re welcome to join them.

“We will supply you with a cardboard box ground sheet, but you need to bring your own sleeping bag,” Mr Hinks said.

“You don’t have to commit to sleeping out for the whole night, you can drop in and listen to the campfire talks and enjoy some of the entertainment.”

Apart from raising vital funds, the aim of the night is to start a conversation about the serious matters of homelessness, mental health and domestic violence.

“We’ve just got to get people talking,” Mr Hinks said.

“It’s just communication, no pressure.”

“There will be a number of people there on the night sharing their firsthand stories of homelessness and domestic violence.

“People that have been affected by homelessness.

“People that have been affected by domestic violence.

“Homelessness can be a direct result of domestic violence.

“We are raising money for Hope4U and Jarron Project.”

The Lions have decided to go with a comfortable chat-around-the-campfire approach for the night.

They hope that the informal setting will allow people to relax and get involved with the discussion of homelessness, mental health and domestic violence.

The lovely ladies from the Country Women’s Association will be providing some delicious soup and bread to warm everyone up from the inside out for the night.

Another group will bring along some cakes and there will be entertainment.

The Lions will serve up a delicious barbecue breakfast on Sunday morning.

People are reassured that every single cent raised by Lions groups goes back into the community.

“One hundred per cent goes back to the project,” Scott said.

“There are no admin fees.”

The Lions have a gofundme page to make donating easier.

So far, they have raised $2,275 toward their $5000 goal for the Jarron Project - Hope4You Foundation, but Mr Hinks and fellow Lion member Warren Doyle have a challenge for orgnanisations and businesses to really impact their community.The duo has promised to go without a sleeping bag if any individual, business or organisation was willing to donate $2,500.

The Jarron Project plays a crucial role in the community by providing essential mental health counselling, grief counselling, and support for those affected by domestic violence.

The GoFundMe link is https://gofund.me/9f3ebdfb for those wishing to donate and help the Richmond Lions reach or exceed their $5000 goal.

• Topics:

• Community Groups
• Living and Lifestyle
• Fundraiser