The Harcourts Foundation has formed a groundbreaking partnership with Backpack Bed for Homeless Inc, a national charity dedicated to providing immediate relief for people sleeping unsheltered.
The collaboration brings together shared values and a commitment to supporting some of society’s most vulnerable individuals by delivering life-saving solutions.
Founded in Melbourne in 2007, Backpack Bed for Homeless has been addressing the urgent issue of homelessness for nearly two decades.
The organisation has designed innovative tools like the Sleeping Bag Hypothermia Pack and the multi-award-winning Backpack Bed®, providing warmth and protection to those who need it the most.
“At its core, Backpack Bed for Homeless is about compassion, dignity, and practical action. Shelter is a fundamental human right, yet there are more than 45,800 Australians sleeping unsheltered every night,” Tony Clark, co-founder of Backpack Bed for Homeless said.
“Our partnership with The Harcourts Foundation is another step towards having an increasing impact on the gap that exists today between the volume of people in need compared with the volume of people who are able to be helped.”
The partnership was announced by Adrian Knowles, CEO Harcourts Australia, at the Harcourts national conference HX.
“Partnering with Backpack Bed for Homeless allows us to act on our core values of putting people first, doing the right thing, and being a positive force in the communities we serve,” Mr Knowles said.
Pauline Smith, Head of the Harcourts Foundation, emphasised how the partnership aligns with their mission.
“Thanks to the backing of the Harcourts group globally, we are able to place ourselves in the centre of the communities to provide support to help, grow, and enrich the lives of those around us,” Ms Smith said.
“Backpack Bed for Homeless fits seamlessly with our mission to prioritise people and make a meaningful difference. We believe that homelessness is a social issue that demands practical and compassionate action.”
The harsh reality is that homelessness doesn’t discriminate. Many unsheltered Australians once had stable jobs, homes, and futures before unfortunate circumstances took it all away.
Providing a Backpack Bed not only offers immediate protection against the elements but also acts as an essential engagement tool for outreach workers to build trust and help bring individuals closer to long-term solutions.
“Every human deserves love, compassion, and shelter,” Lisa Clark, co-founder of Backpack Bed for Homeless said.
“We cannot underestimate the difference a small act of kindness can make in someone’s life.
“A Backpack Bed can save lives and, more importantly, remind an individual that they are not forgotten.”
Through the Foundation, funds will be raised specifically for the purchase of Backpack Beds.
“These funds will go directly toward the purchase of the beds, blankets, and so on, which will then be shipped to the frontline charitable organisations for distribution to those in need,” Ms Smith said.
