World Homeless Day is an annual event on the 10th of October. History The concept of 'World Homeless Day' emerged from online discussions between people working to respond to homelessness from various parts of the world. The Inaugural World Homeless Day was marked on the 10th of October 2010. Since its founding, World Homeless Day has been observed on every continent except Antarctica, in several dozen countries. Use of the idea of 'World Homeless Day' is open for all to use... anywhere in the world. Purpose The purpose of World Homeless Day is to draw attention to homeless people’s needs locally and provide opportunities for the community to get involved in responding to homelessness, while taking advantage of the stage an ‘international day’ provides. How To Make a Difference educate people about homeless issues

people about homeless issues celebrate and support local good works

and support local good works highlight local issues in the media

local issues in the media donate to local service providers

to local service providers volunteer and provide hands on help

and provide hands on help thank volunteers with certificates and awards

volunteers with certificates and awards invite a guest speaker

a guest speaker host a fundraiser

a fundraiser Tweet #WorldHomelessDay @homelessday Collaborate & Double Your Impact Once you identify the local service provider for homeless people you want to rally support behind.... for example if they suggest clean socks; or food items; or an item they need funds to buy or just general fundraising.... use your local networks to rally even greater support: schools

places of worship

sporting & service clubs

local businesses

where you work

who else? World Homeless Day is something you can point to on the calendar each year and use to make a significant difference in your local community. Suggestions for Politicians Acknowledge World Homeless Day officially

Benchmark and declare targets

Point out the good works of service providers

Release new funds each year on the date

Form an advisory group on homelessness

Make housing affordable in your electorate Suggestions for Journalists * Homelessness is a tough topic to cover correctly, note the date 10th October and be ready to publish on the day.

Rethink Homelessness Video Performing Arts in Australia A WHD conference organised by locals in Zambia. Activists in the U.S. reclaim an Abandon Building

Street Protests on World Homeless Day London: School Students Gather for a Dress Up Day to raise money for a Guest Speaker from a local charity.