As homelessness rises and more locals fall into hardship, the Sunshine Coast community is being urged to rally behind a campaign to provide a safe night’s sleep for people in need.
Federal Member for Fairfax Ted O’Brien launched the community fundraising campaign to get the Sunny Coast Sleeper Bus to Nambour just a few weeks ago and has already raised more than $7000.
“Across the country, living standards are going backwards and more people are slipping through the cracks,” Mr O’Brien says. “That’s why services like the Sleeper Bus are so important. It provides immediate, practical support for people who need it most.”
Delivered by the Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre, the Sunny Coast Sleeper Bus is a converted coach that provides a safe and supervised overnight place to sleep for up to nine people who would otherwise be sleeping rough, with volunteers on board throughout the night.
Mr O’Brien urges community members to donate or volunteer their time.
“This is a true community effort and volunteers play a vital role in making sure the Sleeper Bus can continue helping people in need,” he says. “A donation of just $15 can help keep someone off the street for a night, but we also need people power.”
Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre CEO Mark Ellis says the Sleeper Bus is already making a real impact.
Donate at givenow.com.au/cr/sleeperbustonambour or register to volunteer at maroochync.org.au/volunteer.
