By Esther Lauaki
Werribee teacher Stephanie Hartnup is dedicated to helping put youth homelessness to bed.
Ms Hartnup will be participating in next week’s Sleep at the ’G charity event where 1800 supporters will sleep out at the Melbourne Cricket Ground to raise money and awareness for the cause.
Homelessness is a cause Ms Hartnup would like to draw more attention to, which is why she has attended the event every year since its inception seven years ago.
“I feel it’s an honour to sleep one night in the cold on a cardboard box, to raise money for the Melbourne City Mission,” she said.
“I see homelessness as a significant issue in Melbourne today, in particular youth homelessness.
“I personally believe that this issue does not receive enough attention from our government, media and education system, therefore is overlooked by our wider society.
“As a teacher myself, I could never imagine one of my students having to sleep rough or couch surf, however I am glad there is an organisation out there like Melbourne City Mission’s Front Yard which specialises in helping homeless youth.”
Ms Hartnup said her goal was to raise at least $1200 towards the cause.
To register or donate: sleepattheg.com.au
