THE annual REIWA sleeping bag appeal kicks off with member agencies throughout Mundaring and Kalamunda opening their doors to collect sleeping bags and blankets in support of The Salvation Army.

REIWA  president Suzanne Brown said REIWA partnered with the Salvos more than a decade ago to start the appeal.

“(It) was established in 2013 to provide REIWA members with meaningful opportunities to give back to the community through fundraising and volunteering efforts,” Ms Brown said.

“The initiative began as part of our support for the Salvos’ WA winter appeal and has since grown into REIWA’s annual sleeping bag appeal, which now runs in conjunction with the Red Shield Appeal.”

Salvos spokesperson Warren Palmer said affordability and availability of housing were the key drivers of homelessness.

“Particularly in suburban areas on the fringes of Perth where the possibility of being unnoticed is greater,” he said.

“With these twin challenges of meeting the current housing needs based on population growth alone, there is no surprise in there being little capacity to also absorb those who experience relationship breakdowns, family violence and addiction issues let alone those who live below the poverty level.

“Sadly, it is inevitable therefore that homelessness in all forms will thrive.”

Mr Palmer said the sleeping bag appeal allowed the Salvos to provide care and support to those who experienced the discomfort and insecurity of homelessness.

“We are very grateful for the support of REIWA and its community re-invest members for their support with this appeal,” he said.

Real estate agency Professionals Stirling Clark (SC) licensee Tayla Parkinson said SC was always ready to step up and support a good cause.

Ms Parkinson said SC was a collection point this year and also participated in the appeal last year.

“We had a great response, so signing up again was an easy decision,” she said.

She said the program offered a small sense of comfort to those facing homelessness during the winter months.

“Salvos will ensure the donated items reach those who need them most because no one knows how to connect with people in need quite like the Salvos,” Ms Parkinson said.

Donations will be accepted at Kalamunda’s Brett Johnston Real Estate and Provincial Real Estate as well as Professionals Stirling Clark offices in Forrestfield, Mundaring and Kalamunda.

There are 23 collection points throughout the metropolitan area with donations open until Friday, June 27.