As part of the Community Bank Seddon’s support of the Melbourne Airport Car Park Sleep Out, Esha and Dom volunteered their time and spent the night, on the 16th October, sleeping in their cars at Melbourne Airport
They were joined with over 130 attendees who gathered to sleep in their cars to raise money and awareness for McAuley Women’s Services and Juno in support of women and children facing homelessness due to family violence.
The evening began with shared powerful reflections on the sector and the continued and growing need for their services. Several people with lived experience of family violence and homelessness shared their stories including McAuley’s lived experience consultant, Diana, who had spent several weeks living in her car with her children after leaving her violent husband.
‘With such a broad mix of attendees, from corporate sponsors to passionate community members, the stories shared throughout the night had a real impact. It was clear that they left many reflecting on the harsh reality of homelessness and family violence.
After the formalities of the evening, everyone headed to their cars for an uncomfortable night’s sleep. It was a humbling reminder of the reality countless women and children face each night, without the luxury of knowing they will be returning home to a warm, safe and comfortable bed.
Both Esha and Dom were truly overwhelmed with the experience. “I’m grateful I had the opportunity to attend such a powerful gathering,” said Dom. “If given the chance I’d absolutely love to go again next year. To hear their stories and how much they have overcome was such a powerful message. It provided an insight into a lot of things that most people wouldn’t think about, and I hope to use this experience to continue to raise awareness.”
Esha agreed “Hearing real-life stories – ones we don’t often get to hear – was incredibly moving. Some of the experiences shared were quite overwhelming, but also deeply inspiring.”
So far, the event has raised more than $90,000 which will be split between McAuley and Juno to provide safe shelter and essential support to those with nowhere else to turn.
Learn more: McAuley Women’s Services – https://www.mcauley.org.au/
Juno – https://juno.org.au/
