Whittlesea mayor Ricky Kirkham will be sleeping rough for a night to shine a spotlight on homelessness.
Cr Kirkham has signed up for the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, in which business and community leaders walk in the shoes of homeless people by sleeping on the streets of Melbourne on Thursday, June 22.
Participants are asked to bring along a sleeping bag and are provided with a piece of cardboard to sleep on and a bread roll to eat.
Cr Kirkham said the event was an important way to raise awareness about homelessness.
“I think it is important for local government and business leaders from across the state to highlight the issues facing homeless people throughout Melbourne,” he said.
“It will be a good opportunity to meet and network with different providers.”
Cr Kirkham said he was prepared for the cold conditions.
“It will be an interesting experience, but given the fact I come from a military background, I’m used to sleeping in different places, often in cold conditions,” he said.
Cr Kirkham is hoping to raise at least $5000 to help Vinnie’s homelessness services.
To donate, visit: bit.ly/2rSbf0x
