More people are “sleeping rough” as a result of the Covid pandemic, increased costs of living and rental squeeze

More people are “sleeping rough” as a result of the Covid pandemic, increased costs of living and rental squeeze. Here’s how you can support them through our Sunday Mail Blanket Appeal.

More people are “sleeping rough” as a result of the Covid pandemic, increased costs of living and rental squeeze.

Homelessness can happen to anyone, says Hutt St Centre’s Chris Burns, and as the weather turns wet and cold, timing has never been more critical for the Sunday Mail Blanket Appeal.

While traditionally woollen blankets have been provided, this year’s appeal has a greater focus on waterproof sleeping bags, swags and jackets, which are “valued, practical and enduring”.

“A lot of people say to me that they can’t imagine what it like to be sleeping rough in this weather, and I always remind them that being homeless isn’t a choice,” Mr Burns said. “It can happen to any of us. We are all … one ill-fated decision or one traumatic event away from experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping.”

Alex Dimos from the Blanket Appeal Foundation with Peter, a Hutt Street client at Hutt Street Centre, SA. Picture: Emma Brasier

Hutt Street client Peter testing some of the Blanket appeals offerings in the Parklands. Picture: Emma Brasier

Waterproof sleeping gear will help people like Hutt St client, Peter. “We are seeing increased numbers of rough sleepers at the moment,” Mr Burns said. “The sleeping bags, swags and jackets provided by this year’s Appeal will be invaluable in saving the lives of some of the most vulnerable members of our community.”

The Sunday Mail’s longest running charitable initiative, the Blanket Appeal, has raised a record $75,000 donated by many generous South Australians, including The Australian Chinese Medical Association Foundation who kickstarted the campaign with a $10,000 donation.

Executive Director of The Advertiser Foundation, Alexandra Dimos, thanked donors for their support.

“We could not have predicted this incredible result, especially given the challenges posed by the pandemic,” she said.

Donate to The Advertiser and Sunday Mail Blanket Appeal here.