Hoteliers across New South Wales gathered last week for the annual Hotels Have Hearts gala dinner, to raise funds for St Vincent de Paul and enjoyed a record-breaking evening.
The night saw 540 people from across the industry gather at the Hilton in Sydney, where an incredible $750,000 was raised to help the homeless.
“Hotels Have Hearts is a statement from the NSW hotel industry that we care, that we are prepared to give, that we believe in a society where those who can help, do so for those who are struggling to keep their heads above water,” said Kim Maloney OAM, Chairman, Hotels Have Hearts Committee.
“The record result from this year’s event is proof of what can be achieved when we all work together for an important cause. I am proud that the money raised will continue to go towards the critical work that Vinnies undertakes to encourage personal and community resilience by giving the homeless a hand up rather than a hand out.”
The Hotels Have Hearts initiative was set up by a group of hoteliers in 2001 and since then has gone on to become one of the premier hospitality industry fundraising events. So far more than $4.5m has been raised by Hotels Have Hearts, contributing to significant improvements to Vinnies’ Matthew Talbot Hostel including support for the home outreach service, medical equipment, as well as a training kitchen, computer laboratory and art studio.
Jack de Groot, Chief Executive Officer, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW, said the Hotels Have Hearts funds will help the charity to keep up it work in helping the most vulnerable.
“Sadly, the most recent Census data shows that there are now 116,000 fellow Australians living with the uncertainty and despair of homelessness. This means much more than a lack of shelter, but a lack of safety, confidence and connection to loved ones and the wider community,” he said.
“The Hotels Have Hearts event was not only a great night had in celebration of the spirit of collaboration and generosity. I am pleased to say that the proceeds will mean we can continue to change the lives of those that need it most well into the future.”