Cristina van Vliet

One night isn't a lot, but it can make a whole lot of difference

Every night, thousands of Australians experience homelessness. But it doesn't have to be that way. This year I'm taking part in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout to raise money for the St Vincent de Paul Society to support Australians in need. For one night, I'll be sleeping outside as part of an eye-opening experience to raise awareness and bring home the realities of homelessness.

Working in the Disability Sector, I see first-hand how closely homelessness and mental health challenges are linked.

Many of the individuals we encounter are not only without a stable place to call home but are battling complex mental health issues.

The cycle is vicious - mental health struggles can lead to homelessness and the trauma of homelessness can make those struggles even harder to overcome. Without stable housing and access to care breaking free from this cycle becomes nearly impossible.

By taking part in the CEO Sleepout, I hope to shine a light on this often-overlooked crisis.

To help break the devastating cycle of homelessness, I need your support. Will you help me to reach my target? Donating any amount can make a huge difference to people who need it most.