Presence Real Estate Braves the Cold for a Great Cause: Sleepout for Soul 2024
On a chilly evening in Newcastle, a team of dedicated individuals from Presence Real Estate joined hundreds of others to participate in the Sleepout for Soul 2024. This annual event, one of the most significant fundraisers for Soul, brought together people from all walks of life to raise awareness and funds for the homeless community. Our team, including Chasse Ede, Nathan Hunter, Rachel Ellis, Tyrone Garz, and Samantha Ede braved the cold to support this noble cause, and it turned out to be an unforgettable night.
A Night of Unity and Purpose
Sleepout for Soul is much more than just a fundraiser; it is an event that unites the community through music, food, fire pits, auction prizes, and dancing. It’s a night where everyone comes together, not just to raise money, but to experience, even if just for one night, the hardships faced by those who sleep rough. This year, Soul aimed to raise $200,000, and thanks to the generosity and support of the community, they surpassed this goal, reaching a fantastic total of $304,811.
The Reality of Rough Sleeping
The venue for the Sleepout was the Bolton Street carpark, an unforgiving place to spend the night. Participants came prepared with swags, doonas, and pillows, setting up makeshift beds on the hard concrete. As the night progressed, the true challenge of the event became evident. At around midnight, a fierce southerly wind brought rain and cold, making it nearly impossible for anyone to get a good night’s sleep. The wind howled through the levels of the carpark, and the rain added to the discomfort, giving us a small taste of what it means to sleep rough during the colder months.
Despite the adverse conditions, the spirit of the participants remained unbroken. Our team were all tired and bleary-eyed, having had little to no sleep, but the experience left them with a deeper appreciation for the resilience of those who endure these conditions regularly.
Photo from Soul Hub Newcastle Facebook Page
The Power of Community Support
One of the highlights of the night was the charity auction, skillfully conducted by Chasse Ede. Local firms had generously donated a variety of amazing prizes, and the auction alone raised over $15,000. The enthusiasm and generosity displayed during the auction were truly inspiring, demonstrating the power of community spirit in achieving great things.
Presence Real Estate is proud to have contributed to this remarkable cause, raising $1,788 towards the event. Every dollar raised goes a long way in supporting Soul’s mission to provide essential services and support to those in need.
A Memorable and Impactful Experience
Participating in Sleepout for Soul was a humbling and eye-opening experience. It was a night that tested our endurance and highlighted the harsh realities faced by the homeless. But more importantly, it was a night that showcased the incredible compassion and generosity of our community. We were all reminded of the importance of giving back and supporting those who are less fortunate.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on the success of Sleepout for Soul 2024, we are filled with gratitude for everyone who contributed to surpassing the fundraising goal. The funds raised will make a significant difference in the lives of many, providing them with the support and resources they need to navigate challenging times.
At Presence Real Estate, we are committed to continuing our support for initiatives like Sleepout for Soul. We believe in the power of community and the impact that collective effort can have. As we look ahead, we are motivated to find more ways to contribute to the well-being of our community and support those who need it the most.
Join Us in Making a Difference
If you are inspired by the stories and the impact of Sleepout for Soul, we encourage you to get involved. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or participating in future events, every bit of support counts. Together, we can make a difference and create a community where everyone has a place to call home.
Sleepout for Soul 2024 was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community. It was a night that brought us all closer, not just to each other, but to the cause we were supporting. Presence Real Estate is honoured to have been a part of this incredible event, and we look forward to continuing our support for Soul and their mission. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event a success. Together, we can achieve great things.
