In a city that often prides itself on being one of the most liveable in the world, it’s confronting to realise that half of Sydney’s homeless population is under 24. Many of these young people aren’t rough sleeping — they’re on friends’ couches, in cars, or bouncing between short-term stays, all while trying to stay afloat in a system that often doesn’t see them.
That’s where Stepping Stone House steps in.
For more than 35 years, this purpose-led organisation has been quietly transforming lives — providing safe homes, education pathways, and life skills to help young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness build brighter, independent futures. Their approach is built on compassion, connection, and the belief that every young person deserves the same foundation most of us take for granted: stability, trust and belonging.
A Night That Connects Sydney
This month, Stepping Stone House will once again bring Sydney together for Sleep Under the Stars — a one-night community event at Barangaroo where families, friends and workplaces roll out their sleeping bags and spend a night under the city skyline to raise $1 million for youth experiencing homelessness.
It’s more than just a fundraiser. It’s a powerful act of solidarity — a reminder that empathy grows when we step outside our comfort zones and see life through another’s lens.
As CEO Jason Juretic explains, “Homelessness isn’t just what we see on the streets. It’s happening quietly in spare rooms, trains and cars — to people we might know but don’t realise are struggling. When a community shows up like this, it sends a message that no one is invisible.”
Kindness That Creates Change
Since opening its doors in 1989, Stepping Stone House has supported over 500 young people, equipping them with the confidence and tools to build stable, independent lives. The results are deeply human — and deeply hopeful.
One graduate, Shen Wilson, shares how the organisation changed her trajectory:
“Before I entered Stepping Stone House, my dreams were all about finding a roof over my head. When I came out, my whole life had changed. I’m now a mum of four, with a career and happiness I never thought possible. It’s all because of Stepping Stone House.”
This is what kindness looks like in action — people coming together to give others a chance not just to survive, but to thrive.
How to Get Involved
The next Sleep Under the Stars takes place Friday 24 October 2025 at Stargazer Lawn, Barangaroo. It’s free to attend and open to everyone — families, teams, friends, and anyone who believes in a fairer, kinder world.
Every dollar raised helps fund Stepping Stone House’s programs — from long-term accommodation and education support to mentoring and life skills training.
To register or donate, visit sleepunderthestars.com.au.
Because when a community chooses kindness, it doesn’t just change lives — it changes what’s possible.
Editor’s Note – Lisa Hollinshead, Founder, OneAnother.Community
At OneAnother, we believe kindness isn’t a nice-to-have — it’s a necessity. It’s the thread that connects us, heals us, and reminds us that no one should ever be left behind.
Stepping Stone House embodies this truth. They don’t just offer shelter — they offer dignity, purpose and belonging. And in a world where disconnection is one of our greatest challenges, that kind of community is everything.
When you choose to show up — whether it’s by sleeping under the stars, lending your voice, or simply caring — you become part of something bigger: a movement of good humans changing the story together.
Because together, we can build a future where everyone has a place to call home.