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2017 AMCN Jacket Drive | EVENTS

The 2017 AMCN Jacket Drive has distributed warmth to the needy recipients at the Sydney Homeless Connect, held at the city’s town hall last month.

Hundreds of Sydney’s homeless left the event warmer and more protected from the elements, thanks to the generosity of AMCN readers who donated their pre-loved motorcycle kit so those sleeping rough could benefit from the protective clothing’s superior thermal properties.

With both Indian Motorcycles and Shannons Insurance on board as collection partners, and some significant donations from the likes of Yamaha Australia and Draggin Jeans, logistics partner Mission Australia was once again in high praise of the big-hearted scheme.

“In this area, there are just under 500 people sleeping rough on any given night, and that’s a figure that needs to be reduced,” Mission Australia South Eastern NSW Manager Daniel Strickland said. “That figure is only the tip of the iceberg; there are over 105,000 homeless people across Australia, so there are a lot of ‘hidden’ homeless. But the people we spoke to today would be feeling a lot warmer tonight thanks to the generosity of AMCN readers, so please know your contribution is appreciated.”

The annual Town Hall event was again a valuable resource for the city’s displaced population, with dozens of organisations on hand to offer goods and services that most of us take for granted. Complimentary haircuts were popular, as was veterinary care for pets, bicycle repair and servicing, new footwear, and various healthcare and massage services.

Instigated by former AMCN editor Sam Maclachlan, the Jacket Drive initiative is now in its sixth year and wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering and continued support of readers. Thank you to everyone who lent a hand.

By Matt O’Connell