As part of their ‘Wrap Up Homelessness’ campaign, taking place from June 4 to 8, the Wollongong Homeless Hub is running the ‘Walk in My Shoes’ challenge. 

During this time participants will be asked to follow in the footsteps of previous Hub clients by being given a case scenario that replicates the experience as closely as possible. 

During this challenge participants will be able to collect donations from colleagues, family and friends to support the Hub’s efforts. 

Mandy Booker, manager of Wollongong Emergency Family Housing and Wollongong Homeless Hub said participants will not only gain a greater understanding of the challenges those less fortunate face in our society, but will be asked to challenge their views or beliefs they may have held before completing the challenge.

She also hoped that after completing the challenge, participants would return to their workplace, families and communities and share their experiences. 

“For far too long homeless people have had to carry the shame, stigma and lack of understanding of many people in our community that do not understand the challenges that being homeless brings,” Ms Booker said.

“Winter unfortunately shows no compassion to those sleeping rough in the Illawarra... The colder weather, rain and wind can make for a bitterly cold existence.

“Despite various campaigns I often still hear things like, ‘they should just get a job’, ‘they need to get off the drugs’ or ‘we don't want those people as our tenants’.

“Unfortunately some of these comments have come from the very people that are in a position to help people, rather than further exclude and isolate those vulnerable and less fortunate.

“More work clearly needs to be done.”

Ms Booker said they already have participants from IRT, Australia Post, a Federal Member and more.

However, they are still looking for additional executives and community leaders to take part. 

Interested parties can email mandy@wefh.org.au or phone 4228 0955. 

Read More: The hidden faces of the Illawarra's homeless