18 June 2026 marks the longest day (and night) of winter in Sydney.
On this night, James Dorney and David Hill will step away from the warmth and comfort of their homes to join hundreds of leaders across the country in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout.
The St Vincent de Paul Society of NSW (Vinnies) is a longstanding partner of TOMRA Cleanaway in delivering Return and Earn, the NSW container deposit scheme.
Vinnies currently operates 10 Return and Earn depots within the TOMRA Cleanaway network. This partnership enables Vinnies to generate vital funding to support their critical social and community services.
Across Australia, more than 122,000 people are experiencing homelessness; including families, older women, and over 17,000 children under 12. Many are sleeping in cars, couch surfing, or living in unsafe and insecure housing due to the rising cost of living.
For most, homelessness is not a choice; it’s the result of circumstances like housing stress, domestic violence, or financial hardship.
Why are we taking part in the Sleepout?
According to David and James — it’s the least they can do.
Both have seen first-hand the impact of Vinnies’ work in the community. Through TOMRA Cleanaway’s long-standing partnership with Vinnies, supporting their mission remains a shared priority.
Over the past six years, David and James have collectively raised almost $50,000 to help Vinnies continue delivering essential services to people experiencing hardship.
David’s story
David reflects on his experiences in South Africa and the compassion shown by Vinnies volunteers:
“I’ve seen first-hand the impact Vinnies has on people’s lives. In South Africa, Vinnies was synonymous with offering a hand up to those who needed it most.
Providing shelter, warmth and comfort to those in need is one of the greatest expressions of humanity.
Participating in the CEO Sleepout is a small gesture compared with the work of Vinnies volunteers and staff. I’m proud to support their efforts through my fundraising.”
What is the Vinnies CEO Sleepout?
The Vinnies CEO Sleepout is a one-night event held during one of the coldest nights of the year. Hundreds of CEOs, business owners, and community leaders sleep outdoors to raise awareness and funds for Australians experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.
Each participant commits to fundraising, helping Vinnies provide essential support services to those who need them most.
Where your donation makes a difference
Every dollar raised through the CEO Sleepout directly supports Vinnies’ frontline services.
- In 2025 alone, funds raised nationally helped provide:
- 70,000+ nights of accommodation
- 316,000+ meals
- Support for 30,000+ people in need
In NSW, donations help fund:
- Crisis and transitional accommodation
- Meals and emergency relief
- Support workers and case management
- Health services and outreach programs like Vinnies Vans
Your contribution helps provide not just immediate relief, but pathways to long-term stability.
Demand for support is rising rapidly, with homelessness services often at capacity and some people turned away due to limited resources.
Help make a real difference
By supporting David and James, you’re helping Vinnies provide essential services to people doing it tough in our communities.
Even a small donation can help provide:
A warm meal on a cold night
Access to safe, short-term accommodation
Connections to long-term housing and support
Donate to support DavidTogether, we can help ensure more Australians have access to the safety, dignity and support they deserve.
This year marks the fifth CEO Sleepout proudly supported by TOMRA Cleanaway.
