Winter Warmer to Support Locals in Need

Winter Warmer 2026 Launches to Support Thousands Facing Homelessness Across Byron and Tweed

Dharma Care's Winter Warmer campaign is back, aiming to raise $50,000 for four frontline charities supporting people experiencing homelessness across Byron and Tweed Shires, with a fundraising cabaret at Salt Bar on 2 July.

As winter settles across the Northern Rivers, local charity Dharma Care is calling on the community to help support people experiencing homelessness through its annual Winter Warmer campaign.

Now in its fourth year, Winter Warmer has become a significant community fundraising initiative, raising more than $170,000 since 2023 and providing support to more than 8,000 people across the region.

This year, Dharma Care hopes to raise $50,000 to support four frontline organisations delivering essential services to people experiencing homelessness and hardship: Fletcher Street Cottage in Byron Bay, Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre, Fred's Place and The Shift Project.

The appeal comes as homelessness continues to place pressure on local support services. Byron Shire records the second-highest number of rough sleepers in New South Wales, while Byron and Tweed Shires together account for more than a quarter of the state's rough sleeping population.

"Every act of care shifts something," the Dharma Care team said. "A meal shifts a night. A shower shifts someone's dignity. A referral shifts someone's options. A safe space shifts someone's fear. An education shifts someone's future."

The campaign will culminate in the Winter Warmer Fundraising Cabaret on Thursday 2 July at Salt Bar, Kingscliff, bringing together entertainment, community and fundraising for a night dedicated to supporting some of the region's most vulnerable residents.

Hosted by comedian and author Mandy Nolan, the event will feature internationally acclaimed performer The Space Cowboy, a Welcome to Country by Aunty Jackie, performances from the Kinship Doobai Dancers, dinner, a live auction and raffle.

All proceeds from ticket sales and donations will go directly to the campaign's charity partners, helping provide practical support such as meals, showers, emergency relief, referrals, accommodation assistance and wraparound care.

The campaign also highlights the real stories behind homelessness, sharing experiences from people who have accessed support during times of crisis, including families, older people and individuals recovering from illness or housing loss.

Alongside the Winter Warmer appeal, Dharma Care continues to fund its charitable work through Sine Cera Rainforest Retreat, its social enterprise accommodation venture. The organisation recently welcomed the reopening of Lions Road, making travel from Brisbane easier for retreat guests and helping improve access to the property.

"Every stay at Sine Cera directly supports our charitable work, meaning that whether you contribute through donations or a retreat experience, your impact is immediate and meaningful," the team said.

Community members can support Winter Warmer by making a donation, purchasing tickets to the fundraising cabaret or sharing the campaign with friends and family.

As demand for support services continues to grow across the Northern Rivers, organisers say every contribution can help provide warmth, dignity and hope during the colder months.

For more information, to donate or purchase tickets, visit Dharma Care's Winter Warmer campaign page.

Get tickets here.