More than 122,000 Aussies experience homelessness every night. Most are hidden – they’re couch surfing, sleeping in their car, or moving between temporary accommodation, with no security night to night.
This World Homelessness Day, the property industry has an opportunity to help change that.
A Home for All Foundation was established last month to galvanise the industry’s influence and reach across the country, to drive awareness and raise funds to help end homelessness in Australia.
Across the country, industry leaders are already stepping up for those who need our help – and Christine Mikhael, CEO of LJ Hooker and Chair of the A Home for All Advisory Committee, is calling on the rest of the industry join them.
“Our aim is to raise $1 million by November, and with growing support across the country – I know we can get there,” said Ms Mikhael.
“The property industry is uniquely positioned to address the issue of homelessness and housing insecurity.
“Every day we help our clients build, buy, sell and rent homes, and we have a responsibility to help all Australians, not matter their circumstances, establish a home.”
For Jessie, homelessness wasn’t due to any single occurrence, but many factors outside of her control.
A disruptive school system, lack of safety at home, and no clear support system led her to experience homelessness while she was also navigating her year 12 exams.
“It wasn’t a choice. It was survival,” said Jessie.
“One night at 3 AM, I walked out in my pyjamas with just my phone, charger, and teddy bear. My home was not a safe place.”
Throughout October A Home for All Foundation is leading the A Night Without Home campaign that encourages the industry to spend a night in the shoes of someone experiencing homelessness, raising money and awareness for the cause in the process.
“Our work is closely linked to the heart of the issue and A Home for All foundation is an opportunity to support those who really need it,” said Ms Mikhael.
“Together, we can build a future where every Australian has a safe place to call home.”
Visit ahomeforall.com.au to donate or sign up to take on A Night Without Home challenge.
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