Why Shelterbags?
- Increasing numbers of people, young and old, homeless and sleeping rough
- Winter is obviously worst time of year – bedding becomes wet and unusable
- Waste of donated resources – blankets, sleeping bags
- Growing awareness in community of the homeless and their needs – CEO Sleepout / Sunday Mail Annual Blanket Appeal / Red Shield
- Need for an immediate solution that offers shelter from the elements when sleeping rough
What are Shelterbags?
- A lightweight, waterproof, vented swag
- Includes mattress and padded hood
- Easy to carry when rolled up (backpack size and weight)
- Add sleeping bag or other bedding to suit seasonal conditions
- Keeps bedding dry, provides warmth, and some dignity
What is the cost?
- Currently $85 per bag (includes shipping)
- Import them by the container load – 900 bags – through RC Terrigal
How are they distributed?
- MOU with RC Terrigal in place to supply bags to RC Gawler Light for further distribution to other RCs and organisations as needed
- Next container to be ordered by October 2023 ready for 2024 winter
- RC Gawler Light and partner clubs to purchase around 300 bags for distribution in District 9510
- RAWCS DGR Account has been established for tax deductible donations – see below for details
Project name: Shelterbags for the Homeless Sleeping Rough in South Australia
Project number: 80-2022-23
Link to Donation page https://donations.rawcs.com.au/80-2022-23
(Please note: To trace donations back to local RC, Non Rotary donors to identify local Rotary Club using Request field in donation page)
- Rotary Clubs work together with outreach agencies and other community stakeholders in their own Local Government Area to assess individuals’ needs, monitor and control distribution
- RC Gawler Light to supply other District 9510 clubs with required bags and either invoice clubs direct or access funds donated via RAWCS DGR account.
- Shelterbags are provided to outreach agencies at no cost.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Contact person: Richard Tucker 0429 339 879
Email: [email protected]