Did you know that more than 116,000 Australians experience homelessness on any given night of the year? The face of homelessness is changing and now sadly encompasses an increasing number of women, families and children. 44% of those experiencing homelessness are women, and more than 17,000 children in Australia under the age of 12 do not have a stable place to call home. As we begin our winter season, we're reminded that the needs of our communities often grow during these colder months. Sadly, a number of members of our school communities have experienced and continue to experience degrees of homelessness that impact significantly on the wellbeing of families and students in our care.

This year, representing our educational community will be CEDoW’s Head of Service, Catholic Life, Education and Mission, Ken Bryant. Ken joined leaders from around Australia to take part in the 2019 Vinnies CEO Sleepout on 20 June, raising awareness and vital funds to support services for the thousands of men, women and children experiencing homelessness across the country. This is the second time Ken has participated in the CEO Sleepout, and the fifth year the Diocese has been involved in the event - raising more than $32,000 to date. It is up to all of us to respond to homelessness and help the most vulnerable in our society from becoming another statistic.