Solace Creations is proud to be taking part in the 2026 Vinnies CEO Sleepout as part of the Women Building Change team.
In Canberra alone, more than 1,600 people are experiencing homelessness, with many facing housing insecurity and, in some cases, sleeping rough in harsh conditions – including subzero winter nights. Organisations like St Vincent de Paul Society (Vinnies) work tirelessly year-round to provide essential support, including emergency accommodation, food assistance, financial aid, and pathways toward long-term housing stability.
The Vinnies CEO Sleepout fundraising event gathers critical donations that create real, tangible change in the Canberra community. Funds raised go directly towards frontline services such as crisis accommodation, homelessness prevention programs, mental health support, and daily essentials for those doing it tough.
The Women Building Change team is comprised of Canberran women across the construction, property, and related industries who have come together to raise awareness, funds, and meaningful support for those experiencing homelessness. Last year, the Women Building Change team raised over $280,000 through a series of impactful initiatives, including the Comedy for a Cause event and an Allbids charity auction.
The experience itself is equally powerful. Participants hear firsthand from people who have experienced homelessness and from those working on the front lines. Reflecting on the night, Karen from Solace Creations shared at the 2026 launch: “While we were sleeping rough, it was the coldest night of the year and we were freezing, but we were safe. We knew we weren’t going to be harmed during the night, and that’s something many people don’t have.”
This year, the team is aiming even higher, with a goal of raising over $300,000. A range of fundraising initiatives are planned, including the return of the Comedy for Change night, and a movie night. Solace Creations will also act as a drop-off point for memorabilia, artwork, and other items to be auctioned through Allbids.
In addition, Solace Creations is hosting a Plant Fundraising Sale, an opportunity for the community to “adopt” a plant in exchange for a donation, with all proceeds going towards the cause. Pop into Solace Creations at 1/17 Townsville St, Fyshwick to collect a plant and make a donation.
To learn more or get involved:
Visit the Women Building Change page: https://www.ceosleepout.org.au/fundraisers/womenbuildingchange2026/act
Support Karen Porter from Solace Creations: https://www.ceosleepout.org.au/fundraisers/karenporter
Women Building Change 2025
Jessica Stewart (Ginninderry) with sleeping bags donated by Seears Workwear
Karen Porter (Solace Creations), Ash Berry (Property Council of Australia), and Lucy Hohnen (CEO of Saint Vincent de Paul Canberra and Goulburn)
Jo Farrell (Build Like a Girl), Ash Berry (Property Council of Australia), and Catherine Carter (Salon Canberra).
Karen Porter (Solace Creations), and Todd Wright (Threesides Marketing).
