A Warmer Night for 120,000
On any given night in Australia, around 120,000 people are homeless—sleeping rough, exposed to the wind, cold, and rain. For those living without a roof, even a small amount of warmth and comfort can mean everything.
That’s where Shelterbags come in.
A Shelterbag is a practical, roll-up sleeping system that offers warmth, dignity, and protection from the elements. Lightweight and weather-resistant, each bag provides immediate relief to those in need—and hope, in the shape of shelter.
Originally founded by Mary Crammond, a passionate member of Bowral Mittagong Rotary, Shelterbags Australia began as a heartfelt response to the growing crisis of homelessness. Today, the project is managed by the same Rotary Club, which continues to champion this life-changing initiative.
The Shelterbags themselves are imported from South Africa, where they are made with care and compassion. Once in Australia and New Zealand, they are distributed by Rotary Clubs and passed on to welfare organisations—ensuring they reach the people who need them most.
The statistics broadcast & readily available on the Australian Institute of Health & Welfare site shows us that on ‘any given day’ in NSW alone, 3,600 clients report having slept rough in the last month. These statistics & many more are available on the AIHW website under the Specialist Homelessness Services Annual Report 23-24. AIHW link Providing a warm & robust Shelterbag to a person in these circumstances can make an enormous difference to their comfort & mental health.
As we are all acutely aware, the current cost of living has pushed many families and individuals into crisis. This includes the often unfamiliar avenues of mental and physical health challenges and the loss of dignity in having to seek assistance. We can probably all cite examples that we have seen or heard where this has occurred.
This project is one of many ways Rotary members are making a difference. By joining Rotary, you’re not just lending a hand—you’re becoming part of a global network of people who are taking real, practical steps to change lives. Rotary, Be part of something bigger. Help give warmth, dignity, and shelter—one bag at a time.
Email your enquiry to us at shelterbagsaus@gmail.com