A Hobart City Mission’s op shop has popped up on Hobart’s waterfront for one day only, raising important funds and awareness for homelessness ahead of Sleep Rough 2025.
The pop-up op shop took place at the Princes Wharf 1 forecourt, where Hobart City Mission will hold its major annual community fundraiser on 23 May. Now in its fourth year, Sleep Rough sees hundreds of Hobartians join the fight against homelessness and spend one night sleeping rough, either in the shed or out in the elements.
As of March this year there were 5,069 applicants on the Tasmanian Housing Register, the highest number ever. Of these, 3,300 are staying in insecure or temporary accommodation, and 571 are sleeping rough[1].
Despite the surge in homelessness, Hobart City Mission Partnerships Specialist and Sleep Rough organiser, Em Marriott, said there’s a long way to go to reach this year’s donation target.
“We’ve got a goal of $300,000, but with less than two weeks to go we’re just over 10 per cent of the way there,” she said.
“These funds are essential. Donations made through Sleep Rough help fund our housing programs and emergency accommodation that put a roof over the heads of around 80 adults and 30 children every single night, as well as the 40 food packs we give out daily.
“People know and love our op shops, and they know profits from sales directly fund our services. What better way to grab people’s attention on a busy market day, and let them know there’s still time to sign up or donate to the Sleep Rough campaign.”
Maggie Sinden’s family is participating in Sleep Rough for the second time. She’s impressed by how the event builds understanding and empathy for those without a stable home.
“Last year, speakers who shared their experiences with homelessness gave a humbling insight into how life can change, and how many people are susceptible to financial stress and housing issues,” she said.
“We wanted our children to be aware that not everyone has a place to call home, and of the reasons that cause homelessness. Sleep Rough really helps people understand this.
“We’ve found friends, family and our community have been so willing to dig deep to help those who are struggling. As we’ve fundraised, people’s generosity has been astounding. If you can give something, every dollar makes a difference.”
Registrations for Sleep Rough 2025 close at 5pm on Wednesday 21 May. Sign up to attend Sleep Rough, host a Sleep Rough Sleep Out at your school or donate at sleeprough.com.au.
[1] TasCOSS Tasmania’s State of Housing Dashboard, tascoss.org.au/state-of-
Featured image above: Em Marriott, Hobart City Mission Partnerships Specialist, and the Sinden family – Maggie, Pete, Xavier (10), Leo (8) and Andre (6).
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