Join Age Matters in the ‘Race Against Homelessness’

Age Matters will hold an inaugural charity race day called the ‘Race Against Homelessness’ at Kembla Grange Racecourse on 15 June. All funds raised by the event will help tackle the growing homeless crisis faced by disadvantaged older people in the Illawarra.

Age Matters Manager, Toby Dawson says men and women over the age of 65 are the fastest growing cohorts of people facing homelessness in Australia.

“On any given night there are almost 20,000 people over the age of 55 sleeping rough in Australia, including 2,000 over the age of 75. Research shows that 64% of these people will die within five years,” he said.

“This is a truly shocking statistic and one that the Age Matters is dedicated to addressing by helping older people in need access housing, support services and opportunities for social and civic participation.”

In 2017/18 Age Matters activities directly impacted the lives of 6,813 people, including helping 90 people to find appropriate housing through its Assistance with Care and Housing (ACH) Program.

The ACH Program matches disadvantaged older people with age-friendly, affordable housing, including housing at below-market rent in IRT Retirement Villages.

“Over the last decade, the number of older homeless people has almost doubled as the cost of living continues to rise. The sad truth is that there is only one or two life circumstances between any of us finding ourselves at risk of homelessness. A divorce, job loss, a serious illness or injury is all it can take for the spiral into homelessness to begin,” Mr Dawson said.

“We want to help more disadvantaged older people into safe, secure housing. That’s why we’re calling on the community to join us at the ‘Race Against Homelessness’ Race Day.”

The inaugural event is expected to attract over 300 guests who will enjoy an afternoon of networking, socialising, great food and beverages, while raising vital funds to tackle the homelessness crisis in the Illawarra.

Buy a ticket, make a donation or gift an experience or prize for the event’s silent auction or raffle. Limited sponsorship opportunities are also available.

Join Age Matters at the ‘Race Against Homelessness’ Race Day Fundraiser

When: June 15, 11:30am – 4:30pm

Where: Kembla Grange Racecourse, Bert Lillye Lounge

Bookings: Visit www.irtfoundation.org.au/raceday or call 134 478 for tickets and sponsorship opportunities

Media inquiries: Hannah Ellson 0429 361 627