More than 70 CEOs, business leaders, and community members will spend the night inside the Old Geelong Gaol on Friday 9 June to raise funds for people experiencing homelessness in the region.

Organisers of the Lazarus Community Centre’s annual Sleep Out for the Homeless aim to raise $100,000 this year, an increase on last year's efforts of $72,000.

Bisinella Developments is supporting the organisation’s fundraiser this year, providing the centre the stability it needs to plan ahead.

"Reaching our $100,000 target would have a transformative impact on Lazarus and the people we support," Lazarus Community Centre Board Member Robert Hunter said.

"Bisinella’s contribution is incredibly significant for an organisation like Lazarus. Support at that level allows us to deliver meaningful services directly to people experiencing hardship and homelessness.

"Beyond the financial impact, it sends a powerful message that local businesses care about the wellbeing of our community."

Bisinella Developments Managing Director Richard Bisinella said for those taking part, it is one uncomfortable night by choice, but for someone sleeping rough it’s every night.

"Lazarus does remarkable work for people in our community who are doing it tough, often at the hardest point in their lives,” Richard said.

“We've been part of this region for more than 60 years, and we know it is only as strong as the support we give to those who need it most.

“With more people seeking help than ever before, we'd encourage every local business to get behind the Sleep Out and help Lazarus reach its $100,000 target."

Lazarus Community Centre is open seven days a week, offering meals, hot showers, clothing and a safe place where people are treated with dignity.

The centre receives no government funding for its day-to-day operations, relying instead on volunteers and donors, at a time when demand continues to grow.

"Lazarus only exists because of the generosity and compassion of our community," Robert said.

"Rising housing costs, rental shortages, cost-of-living pressures and financial stress are all contributing to the growing demand.”

This year's Sleep Out follows a major milestone for Lazarus, which recently opened its new, larger permanent residence after four and a half years of work.

Funds raised from Sleep Out will help the centre continue operating, expand its services and provide meals, emergency relief and outreach programs.

Local businesses and community members are encouraged to get involved by sleeping out as a team, fundraising as a business, sponsoring a participant or making a tax-deductible donation.

"My message would be simple: just start," Robert said. "Every contribution makes a difference, regardless of the size."

Bisinella's support for Lazarus reflects a broader belief that strong communities are built by local organisations, volunteers and businesses working together.

Learn more about Sleep Out for the Homeless, or make a donation, by visiting sleep-out-for-the-homeless-2026.raiselysite.com.