DineSmart - Dine Out Help Out
Announcement posted by StreetSmart Australia 18 Nov 2019
DineSmart is changing lives this Christmas
As we wrap up another year, many of us turn our minds to friends, family and to those who are less fortunate. DineSmart is back and, with a host of new restaurants taking part, it’s simple to lend a hand to people who are homeless this Christmas.
Since 2003 DineSmart has applied the simple model of asking diners to chip in a small donation to their bill and granting those donations to combat homelessness in the local community. The collective power of restaurants and local diners working together, makes it such a success, having helped StreetSmart raise over $5.7million.
Heading into its 17th year, there are more than 110 participating restaurants and the campaign runs from November 21st – December 31st with hopes to raise at least $250,000 for homelessness projects during the busy run into Christmas.
But in those 17 years, homelessness in Australia has worsened. Between 2011 and 2016 (the most recent census), homelessness increased by 13 per cent. In New South Wales alone it increased by 37 per cent. CEO of StreetSmart, Adam Robinson, is asking diners to chip in whenever they can:
“We’re not properly funding essential, often lifesaving, services. We’re not properly funding low cost housing. I think as a community we haven’t prioritised solving these issues. We seem to be sitting back and thinking it’s okay. That’s just not good enough for a country as wealthy as ours. We can and should be doing something, and we can all make a difference through leaving a small donation on our bill when we dine out. DineSmart has had a meaningful impact on thousands of people’s lives delivering essential services to those in crisis, as well as working to prevent the causes of homelessness.”
DineSmart has also seed funded a number of innovative projects that are leading local responses to homelessness. Organisations such as Orange Sky Laundry, HOMIE, The Street Socceroos, FareShare, Wear for Success,, and Second Bite, all received early funding from DineSmart and have gone on to have lasting impact.
To find all the restaurants involved check the google map www.streetsmartaustralia.org/dinesmart
“BMiles Foundation works with women who are impacted by mental ill health, many of whom have experienced trauma and or family and domestic violence, and these much-needed funds will enable women to access clinical support to assist them with their recovery. Please let your supporters know their funds raised by DineSmart are going directly to those in need and making a real difference to the lives of the most vulnerable women in our society.” Kate Timmins, BMiles Foundation
For more information about how to Dine Out and Help Someone Sleeping Out visit: https://streetsmartaustralia.org/dinesmart/. For further info / interviews please contact Geoff on 0428 909 097