‘More than just one night in the cold’: CEOs to sleep rough as homelessness rises
Business and community leaders will gather tonight at the Adelaide Zoo for the annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout, as demand for homelessness services surges.
CEOs and community leaders will gather tonight at the Adelaide Zoo for the annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout, trading the comfort of their beds for a sleeping bag and cardboard on one of the longest and wettest nights of the year.
Key homelessness advocacy groups said the funds were desperately needed as the cost of living continues to rise, leaving an unprecedented number of people on the brink of homelessness.
“We are seeing everyday South Australians, who have never needed our assistance before, seeking help just to keep a roof over their heads,” said St Vincent de Paul Society of South Australia State CEO Clinton Jury.
“This event is about much more than just one night in the cold,” he said.
St Vincent de Paul Society of South Australia State President Geraldine Hawkes said the event was “not about just raising funds”.
“It’s about building genuine connection and understanding,” she said.
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“By listening to those who have experienced homelessness first-hand, our community leaders gain deeper insight into the systemic challenges people face, which helps us work together to offer meaningful, lasting support.”
Demand for Hutt St Centre’s services has surged 42 per cent in the past four years, with an average of 650 clients accessing the service each month since January this year.
And as winter descended over Adelaide, Hutt St Centre CEO Chris Burns expected those numbers to rise further.
“Winter makes every day harder as temperatures drop,” he said.
“People arrive after nights in the cold – shivering, exhausted, and carrying very little with them.
“Donations offer more than practical support – they bring warmth, dignity and relief to people during some of the hardest days of winter.”
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One person to access the services at Hutt Street Centre was Tim (name changed), who was forced to live in his van for four years after moving to Adelaide for urgent medical support.
“In winter, if it’s freezing cold and you’ve only got one or two blankets – it’s still not enough,” Tim said.
Exhausted and running out of food, Tim contacted Hutt St Centre, where he was given food, clean clothes, and most importantly, dignity.
“Hutt St cares about your wellbeing. I never would’ve survived without ’em,” Tim said.
“My first shower felt great. The volunteers helped me with my laundry, and the staff had a real ability to find clothing that I really liked.”
There are more than 7400 people like Tim who were experiencing homelessness across South Australia, with Burns saying that a new wave of vulnerable South Australians have been pushed into hardship amidst rising rents.
“Many are being priced out of the market with nowhere safe to go,” Burns said.
With a goal of $800,000, the event raises money for vital services across South Australia, including the Vinnies Women’s Crisis Centre, Men’s Crisis Centre, Fred’s Van food service, and tailored support for individuals and families.
InDaily deputy editor David Simmons will be participating in the 2026 Vinnies CEO Sleepout, and donations can still be made here.
You can also donate to the Hutt St Centre’s Winter Appeal, with donations used to help Hutt St Centre provide practical support for people at risk of or experiencing homelessness, including meals, showers, laundry, medical care and assistance with housing.
Contributions to the Winter Appeal can be made here, or by calling 08 8418 2500. Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible.
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