News senior journalist joined the crowd at The Salvation Army North East Youth Services Under the Same Stars youth homelessness fundraiser overnight on April 16 and 17.
She asked participants what inspired them to sign up for the event.
Courtney Walder, Southern Cross Austereo
“We’ve done lots of stuff for the homeless over the years. Our announcers have done sleep outs by themselves in the mall. We just want to keep it out there and keep people aware of the problem.”
Robyn Schischka, Southern Cross Austereo
“A lot of people think it’s a city/metro problem. They don’t realise there’s 12 and 13-year-olds out there sleeping rough. When an opportunity arises and you’re in the media, you have a responsibility to spread awareness.”
Jon Pearce, Retzos Group Restaurants
“We want to try and be involved in the community, especially in the Shepparton area. If we can help anyone in any way, we would like to.”
Charmaine Quick, Goulburn-Murray Water
“When you talk about youth, or lots of people with disadvantages not represented in the community, it’s up to us who are privileged to speak up for those who can’t sometimes.”
Deb Chumbley, GV Pride
“I’m here to shine a light on the high numbers of homelessness, particularly in the LGBTQIA+ communities, to help be able to wrap them up and protect them a bit better.”