Over the last few months, Orange Credit Union (OCU) has been busy making a difference and bringing awareness to the serious issue of homelessness in our community.
OCU’s CEO Andrew de Graaff took part in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout to raise money for the St. Vincent de Paul Society to help reduce the impacts of homelessness.
“Everyone deserves to be safe. This is something Vinnies believe in, and it’s something I also hold true”, Andrew said.
For one snowy night, Andrew slept outside with a small group of local businesses representing the Orange Business Chamber as part of an eye-opening experience to raise awareness and experience the realities of homelessness.

 Through their efforts, more than $5550 was raised for Vinnies to help in providing beds, meals, and individual support programs for people who are experiencing homelessness.

Recently, OCU held a Winter Clothing Drive via their Summer Street branch where staff and members were invited to bring in high-quality, clean unwanted clothing, blankets, coats to the branch baskets.
“The importance of a home is to feel safe which cannot be underestimated. Living with the feeling that you are at risk of homelessness, it’s something we can change, together.
At Orange Credit Union, we’re a part of the local community, and any contribution that myself and our team can make is important in raising awareness much needed funds to awareness.”

To support, donate and/or if you would like to know more about how you could help, follow this link: www.ceosleepout.org.au/