Each winter, my Mayor’s Lights Out Sleepout reminds us of the harsh reality many in our community face – the reality of not having a safe, warm place to sleep every night.

As Mayor, I’ve seen first-hand the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness in Canterbury-Bankstown.

The rising cost of living, housing shortages and personal hardship are pushing more families, young people and individuals into homelessness.

Homelessness is not an issue confined to any particular area, but an issue that is happening right across Sydney and even right here in our own neighbourhoods.

That’s why my sleepout event matters. It’s about coming together, as a community, to raise awareness, show compassion and contribute directly to some of the organisations who are doing critical work on the ground: Mission Australia, Maronites on Mission and Brothers in Need.

Whether you're sleeping out, donating, or simply spreading the word, your involvement makes a huge difference.

It sends a powerful message that we will not turn our backs on those doing it tough.

This is a cause I deeply believe in and I thank every individual, business and group who joins us this year. A special thanks to the mighty Bulldogs who once again are throwing their support behind my fundraising effort.

Together, we can be part of the solution. One night, one act of solidarity, one donation at a time.

The Lights Out Sleepout will be held at Belmore Sports Ground on Friday 8 August.

For more information and to register, visit cb.city/MayoralSleepout2025

Regards,
Mayor Bilal El-Hayek

This Plastic Free July encourages everyone to make small changes to reduce your plastic waste.

Many people are already using reusable drink bottles and coffee cups, but have you considered making the switch to:

• Metal or bamboo cutlery
• Reusable containers for takeaway
• Cloth napkins

We’re also taking steps to reduce plastic waste by switching to biodegradable materials in BLaKC cafe and encouraging vendors at our events to use biodegradable or recyclable containers.

Learn more