• WA winter sleeping bag appeal

The Salvation Army will distribute sleeping bags and blankets to individuals experiencing homelessness in Western Australia, courtesy of a donation from The Real Estate Institute of Western Australia (REIWA).

The REIWA annual Sleeping Bag Appeal partners with The Salvation Army each winter to provide much-needed bedding. As the cost-of-living and housing crisis deepens, more families and young people are turning to The Salvation Army for the very first time.

“Our members understand how important it is to have a roof over your head and a safe place to call home, but that’s not the reality for thousands of Western Australians,” explains Suzanne Brown, REIWA President. “This appeal is a practical way we can help, and I’m proud to join our members in collecting donations again this year.”

REIWA is the peak industry body representing over 9700 individual members. Participating real estate agencies will collect donations of new and laundered sleeping bags and blankets from 26 May to 27 June across 23 collection points in the metropolitan area.

There were an estimated 9700 people (up from 9005 in 2016) who were homeless in Western Australia in 2021, with some projections estimating 127,680 people experiencing homelessness across the country in 2025.

“Sleeping on a hard surface in rough places is a harsh reality for many people,” says Warren Palmer, State Communications Manager for The Salvation Army. “Imagine how incredibly uncomfortable that would be for one night, especially in winter, and how intolerable it is long term. A sleeping bag can at least provide a cushioned layer softening the impact and giving some level of insulation against the weather.”

The Salvation Army believes that every person deserves dignity, respect and quality of service and that no one should be without a safe, affordable and secure home.

The Salvation Army is one of the largest providers of homelessness support in Australia, offering a range of services tailored to adults, families, and children.

“In WA, while there is no clear, immediate relief in the state of housing, every sleeping bag given through this appeal is urgently needed and very much appreciated by all recipients,” Warren says.

Those who wish to contribute financially can donate directly to the Red Shield Appeal. Those willing and able may donate bedding at one of the Sleeping Bag Appeal collection points.