Mission Australia’s intrepid CEO will trek the NT wilderness to raise vital funds for vulnerable young people in the Northern Territory.

James Toomey will be joined by staff, a Mission Australia Board member, his wife and supporters on the five-day hike along Central Australia’s iconic Larapinta Trail. The team are raising money to launch a new Missionbeat service to support young people experiencing, or at risk of homelessness in the NT.

They will depart on 4 June, covering 60 km from Alice Springs to the peak of Mount Sonder.

Missionbeat is a mobile outreach service that seeks to help people who may be experiencing homelessness or are in need of assistance, providing food, clothing, medical care and links to safe accommodation where possible. Missionbeat services also work in close collaboration with other organisations to help break the cycle of homelessness for individuals and families.

On Friday (25 May) James used his musical talent to fundraise ahead of his journey by busking in Sydney’s CBD from the foyer of Mission Australia’s corporate partner, Westpac. The event raised more than $11k via donations from Westpac employees and the company’s matched giving program.

James said: “The rate of homelessness in the NT is ten times that of the rest of the country. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people endure disproportionate levels of homelessness and disadvantage. This trek is about raising vital funds so that we can launch our first Missionbeat in an area where we know there is high need.

“I’ve seen firsthand the impact Missionbeat has in other states and I know its expansion to the NT will make a significant positive impact on the lives of vulnerable young people.”

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