NSW hoteliers will come together to raise funds for the increasing numbers of Australians affected by homelessness at the Hotels Have Hearts Gala Dinner in Sydney on Thursday June 6.
Having raised over AU$4.5 million since its inception in 2001, and following a six-year hiatus, largely due to the pandemic, it is hoped that this event will help the group break through the AU$5 million mark.
Comprised of a collective of generous publicans who are passionate about addressing homelessness on the streets of Sydney, Hotels Have Hearts supports the valuable work of the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW.
According to the latest census, more than 122,000 people are reported to be homeless, with NSW – the most of any state or territory in the country – and recent data from the Australian Institute for Health and Welfare shows there has been a significant increase in unassisted requests for assistance in the state over the last three years.
“Homelessness can affect anyone – young and old, male and female, privileged and disadvantaged,” said Hotels Have Hearts Chairman Kim Maloney OAM.
“The NSW hotel industry cares deeply about the plight of these people and the true spirit of hospitality will be showcased at the Hotels Have Hearts Gala Dinner.”
Taking place at Hilton Sydney – a venue sponsor – the event is supported by the Australian Hotels Association (AHA).
Proceeds from previous events have helped fund improvements to Vinnies’ Matthew Talbot Hostel, including the supply of medical equipment and addition of a computer laboratory and art studio.
Funds have also supported the refurbishment of a recreation and garden space at Vincentian House, an inner-city Vinnies service for women and families experiencing homelessness.
The last Gala Dinner was held in 2018 and raised a record $750,000.