Homelessness to Surge This Winter – How You Can Help.
Mountainwatch | Press Release
Australian owned, snow and outdoor gear brand, XTM Performance, are calling on the community to help ‘Heat the Homeless’, an appeal that is now it’s sixth consecutive year running.
With an estimated 116,000 people across Australia classified as homeless, the Heat the Homeless appeal urges community members to donate their quality, pre-loved snow jackets to help warm those in need. It has been predicted that homelessness could surge by 9% in 2021, and with winter now officially beginning, it’s more important than ever to make your donation.
Since the appeal was founded in 2016, over 20,000 snow jackets have been donated to keep the homeless warm all across Australia. XTM Performance works with participating retailers to act as donation collection points for pre-loved clean and warm jackets (preferably waterproof) with donations being distributed to the homeless (or those in need) via a network of up to 3,500 charities, led by Australian non-for-profit GIVIT.
XTM Performance founder Pete Forras says: “After a tough year, homelessness numbers are on the rise. We are proud to be leading Heat the Homeless for our sixth appeal, to make the harsh winter a little more comfortable for thousands of rough sleepers across the country and help protect them from the cold.”
Caroline Odgers, GIVIT Regional Manager comments: “Now more than ever, we need to find ways to support people who are homeless, or at risk of being homeless. These people are the most vulnerable group during the COVID-19 pandemic and cannot be forgotten.”
All items are required to be in a clean and good condition; as a general rule, if you wouldn’t wear it, please don’t give it.
To learn more about the XTM Performance Heat the Homeless appeal, or to find a donation point for your pre-loved snow jacket, please visit www.xtm.com.au/heat-the-homeless/.
