MEC Mining’s Managing Director Simon Cohn is taking part in this year’s Vinnie’s CEO Sleepout. It’s the third time he’s taken part in the event which gives ordinary Australians the chance to walk a mile in the shoes of a homeless person.
The Vinnies CEO Sleepout offers just a small glimpse into life on the streets. There are over 100,000 Australians who are homeless, sleeping rough each night. Each participant is asked to raise awareness of homelessness in Australia through their participation in the event. They are also asked to raise money for the St. Vincent de Paul Society through an online sponsorship for their sleep out.
For Simon, living the experience of someone sleeping on the street was life changing.
“The sleepout increased my awareness of the issue of homelessness in Australia and helped challenge the stereotypical view of a homeless person. The stories of everyday people whose lives have taken a tragic turn through illness, divorce, injury or unemployment, leaving them unable to support their families with nowhere to turn really moved me. Most end up living in their car or on the street with limited or no support available, leaving them with little hope of a path back to their normal life. Luckily for some, St Vinnies is able to help them back on their feet. It made me realise how lucky I really am. Not just a warm bed to sleep in and roof over my head, but all the people in my life who are there for me.”
It has cemented his determination to make a difference to the lives of Australians who are homeless. Over the past ten years Vinnies have raised $24 million to support homeless services. With these funds, Vinnies not only provide immediate and emergency assistance, but pathways to a brighter future.
“I wanted to say a special thank you to those who donated last year and this year with your help I am hoping to reach a target of $10,000 for this extremely worthwhile cause” says Simon.
Please click the following link and donate to show your support for people experiencing homelessness:
https://www.ceosleepout.org.au/ceos/qld-ceos/simon-cohn-mec-mining/