Canberra Toyota: Partnering with St Vincent de Paul Society to Combat Homelessness
At Canberra Toyota, we believe in the importance of giving back to our community. One of our most significant partnerships is with the St Vincent de Paul Society (Vinnies), an organisation dedicated to supporting those in need and combating social injustice. Since 2012, we have proudly supported Vinnies through various fundraising activities and initiatives aimed at addressing homelessness in Canberra.
Commitment to Ending Homelessness
Our partnership with Vinnies involves supporting key events such as the annual CEO Sleepout, and the winter appeal. These events are crucial in raising funds and awareness to tackle homelessness and support the most vulnerable members of our community. One of our most visible contributions is sponsoring the Vinnies Night Patrol van. This van operates every night on Canberra's streets, providing essential food and water to the homeless and impoverished. It is a lifeline for many, offering not just sustenance but also a sense of dignity and support. Through this sponsorship, Canberra Toyota is doing its part to help curb the homelessness problem in Australia.
The Increasing Challenge of Homelessness
Homelessness in Australia is a growing crisis. According to a recent advocacy statement by Lucy Hohnen, CEO of St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn, indicators of homelessness have increased significantly between the 2016 and 2023 censuses. The ACT has seen a decrease in social housing dwellings, with 3059 households currently on the waiting list and an average wait time of 89 days for public housing vacancies. This underscores the urgent need for more comprehensive solutions and greater commitment from all stakeholders to address this crisis.
Long-Term Support and Impact
Over the past 12 years, Canberra Toyota has been a steadfast supporter of Vinnies' mission to end homelessness. Our Dealer Principal, Mirko Milic, has been a top individual fundraiser, contributing over $293,000 since 2012. In 2019, he was recognized as the third-best individual fundraiser, with a personal best tally of over $27K, and he achieved the top spot in 2023 with $33,726 raised. In 2024 he raised $42,118 to again claim top spot!
Collectively, Canberra Toyota has raised nearly a million dollars over the past decade for Vinnies. This substantial contribution has facilitated positive changes within the local community, thanks to the support of our customers, friends, and colleagues.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, Canberra Toyota remains committed to supporting Vinnies and their mission to end homelessness in Canberra. We are preparing for the next round of campaigns and fundraising events, and we encourage everyone to stay tuned to our social media channels and website for updates on our efforts.
The Broader Impact
The St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn boasts a dedicated workforce of over 500 members, 2000 volunteers, and 240 employees, all working together to serve those less fortunate. The Society's efforts are crucial in providing practical support, advocacy, and friendship to the most vulnerable members of our community. Their initiatives, such as the Night Patrol, are vital in offering not only material support but also human connection and compassion.
Homelessness in Australia, exacerbated by the rising cost of living and the housing crisis, impacts a wide range of people, including children, the elderly, Indigenous populations, and women. The stress and health implications of homelessness are severe, underscoring the need for continued support and intervention.
At Canberra Toyota, we are honoured to play a part in this critical work, standing alongside Vinnies in their mission to offer a hand up to those in need and to foster a more just and compassionate society. Together, we strive to make a lasting difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness in our community.
