Homelessness to surge this winter; how you can help.

MEDIA RELEASE: Monday 1st May, 2023

Australian owned snow and outdoor brand, XTM Performance, are calling on the community to help ‘Heat the Homeless’, an appeal that is now in it’s seventh consecutive year running.

With an estimated 278,000 people across Australia classified as homeless, the Heat the Homeless appeal urges community members to donate their quality, pre-loved snow jackets to help warm those in need. It has been predicted that homelessness could surge by 9% in 2023, and with winter now officially beginning, it’s more important than ever to make your donation.

Since the appeal was founded in 2016, over 23,000 snow jackets have been donated to keep the homeless warm all across Australia. XTM Performance works with participating retailers to act as donation collection points for pre-loved clean and warm jackets (preferably waterproof) which are passed on to not-for-profit donation platform GIVIT for distribution to their 4,500 charity partners across Australia.

XTM Performance founder Pete Forras says: “After a tough year, homelessness numbers are on the rise. We are proud to be leading Heat the Homeless for our seventh appeal, to make the harsh winter a little more comfortable for thousands of rough sleepers across the country and help protect them from
the cold.”

According to GIVIT, the needs of vulnerable Australians have more than doubled on the platform in the past six months, with everyday Australians finding themselves unable to afford the basics. With the rising cost of living many people are now at breaking point.

All items are required to be in a clean and good condition; as a general rule, if you wouldn’t wear it, please don’t give it.

To learn more about the XTM Performance Heat the Homeless appeal, or to find a donation point for your pre-loved snow jacket, please visit www.xtm.com.au/heat-the-homeless

Available for interview:
●Pete Forras, XTM Performance Founder

Heat the Homeless Media:
To access associated Heat the Homeless imagery and videography please contact XTM Marketing:
●Lachy Keevers
Ph: 0417 825 205
E: Lachy@xtm.com.au

 

About GIVIT

GIVIT is the smart way to give. Through GIVIT.org.au, they channel generosity where it is needed to support vulnerable people and communities in Australia.

Working with more than 4,500 support organisations, GIVIT ensure people get what they need when they need it most – whether recovering from an emergency event, or experiencing hardship due to circumstances such as drought, domestic and family violence, homelessness, disability, and mental health.

GIVIT captures offers of goods and services online, removing the need for charities and services to sort, store and dispose of unrequested donations, saving valuable resources. 100% of publicly donated money received by GIVIT to support people in need are used to purchase essential items and services. They buy locally, wherever possible, to support local businesses and the economic recovery of affected communities. GIVIT’s operational costs are covered by government contracts and corporate partners.