vinnies ceo sleepout 2025

Wests Illawarra CEO Daniel Munk has once again braved one of the coldest nights of the year to help shine a light on the growing issue of homelessness – taking part in his 11th consecutive Vinnies CEO Sleepout, held on Thursday 19th of June. 

This year, Danny raised a remarkable $45,653, a total that will go directly towards supporting vital Vinnies programs including crisis accommodation, food services, emergency assistance, and outreach support for people facing or at risk of homelessness. 

Over more than a decade of participation, Danny’s commitment has not wavered – even as local involvement has. 

“Over the past decade, we’ve seen a decline in Illawarra-based participation in the Sleepout,” Danny said. “Where once we had a strong representation of local business leaders joining the cause, we are now down to only a handful. That’s why contributions this year are especially significant.” 

The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that over 122,000 Australians are currently experiencing homelessness. Closer to home, the situation is even more distressing – with the Illawarra region reporting double the national rate of homelessness per 10,000 population (as of 2021). 

“At Wests Illawarra, we firmly believe in being an active and responsible member of the community,” Danny added. “A safe and secure place to sleep should not be a privilege – it’s a basic human need. Every dollar raised helps Vinnies provide food, beds nights, and personalised support to people who need it most.” 

The Vinnies CEO Sleepout is more than a symbolic gesture. Each participant commits to sleeping outdoors for one night and raising critical funds to support Vinnies’ year-round work. The funds raised from Danny’s efforts this year will help provide: 

• 380 warm bed nights 

• More than 1,520 meals 

• 144 individual support programs  

For more information or to learn how you can get involved, please click the button below.