Mary, in her 20s, came to Hills Community Aid (HCA) seeking help to leave a domestic violence relationship. While she had saved enough for a bond and secured a unit, she couldn’t afford two weeks’ rent in advance. Funds from the 2025 Hills Winter Sleep Out covered the rent and provided a grocery voucher. Mary is now safe, completing her studies and working.
After losing his job due to an unexpected restructure, Dave used his savings and payout to cover rent and living costs while searching for work. With Centrelink payments delayed, HCA used funds from The Hills Winter Sleep Out to cover his rent, provide food vouchers and connect him with further support—preventing homelessness for Dave and his family.
With a mission to end homelessness, HCA Aid hosts an annual Winter Sleep Out since 2014. Last year, they raised $54,000 to support people like Mary and Dave. As many as 85 people registered to sleep out at the annual event last year.
This year’s Winter Sleep Out, launched at Bella Vista Farm recently, brought together local leaders, community members and supporters, united to raise awareness and inspire action on homelessness and housing insecurity in The Hills. Hills Shire Mayor Michelle attended the launch to pledge her support.
Hills Community Aid Executive Officer Mici Beer emphasized the growing demand for support services, noting that events like the Sleep Out are vital for raising funds and educating the community about the complex causes of homelessness.
Individuals, businesses, families and community groups can experience a night that challenges perceptions and changes lives. This year’s Hills Winter Sleep Out will be held on 1 August at Bella Vista Farm.
“Homelessness can affect anyone—families, young people, older women—and often remains hidden. Many say ‘there are no homeless people in The Hills,’ as it doesn’t look the same here as in other areas. People sleep in cars, refuges, or couch surf. The Sleep Out helps shine a light on these realities while fostering a strong, compassionate community response,” said Mici.
The Hills Winter Sleep Out is more than a symbolic night outdoors. It gives participants a glimpse into the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness—whether due to domestic violence, financial hardship, mental health issues, or the rising cost of living in our community.
With a major sponsor yet to be secured, Ideal Marketing, Kennards Hire and Hills Storage have confirmed their support for the event.
“Being involved in the Winter Sleep Out is a real privilege, allowing me to promote the values of giving and supporting those in need. HCA has been a wonderful organisation, enabling me to help raise much-needed funds for the event,” said local businessman Jim Taggart, a key driver of the initiative.
Will you sleep out for one night to raise funds and awareness about homelessness? Registrations are now open, with opportunities to participate, sponsor, or donate. https://sleepout-2026.raiselysite.com/
