On Friday 28 August, seven dedicated Bankstown Sports team members swapped the comfort of their beds for a cold night outdoors, taking part in Mayor Bilal El-Hayek's fourth annual Lights Out Sleepout to raise awareness and funds for people experiencing homelessness in our community.

The Lights Out Sleepout challenges local business leaders, community organisations, schools, and residents to brave the elements for one night and stand in solidarity with those who face homelessness every day. This year's event was the biggest yet, with more than 100 participants signing up, making it the largest Lights Out Sleepout since the event's inception.

The event brought together a passionate group of community members committed to making a difference. Through their collective efforts, the event raised more than $80,000 to support three local charities working to address homelessness across the Canterbury-Bankstown region, exceeding Mayor El-Hayek's fundraising goal of $70,000.

Our seven Bankstown Sports participants embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and compassion, spending the night outdoors while raising vital funds to support those experiencing homelessness. Their efforts were met with incredible support from colleagues, friends, family members, and the wider community.

Together, the Bankstown Sports team raised more than $6,000, with Bankstown Sports contributing $5,000 towards the fundraising total. These funds will help provide essential services, support programs, and pathways to secure housing for vulnerable individuals and families in our community.

While fundraising is a key aspect of the event, the Lights Out Sleepout is also an important opportunity to raise awareness of the realities faced by people experiencing homelessness. By spending just one night sleeping outdoors, participants gain a small insight into the challenges that many people face every day, while helping to spark conversations and inspire community action.

Bankstown Sports is incredibly proud of the seven staff members who took part in this year's event and grateful to everyone who supported their fundraising efforts. Their commitment reflects our ongoing dedication to supporting initiatives that strengthen and support our local community.

Thank you to everyone who donated, participated, and helped make the 2026 Lights Out Sleepout the most successful event to date. Together, we are helping to create positive change and provide hope for those experiencing homelessness.