Hunter residents are being urged to search their garages and sheds for unused tents and donate them to a new Tents for Homelessness initiative to help the homeless get a roof over their heads.
Local agent Chad Dunn and Mulligan Property Group started the tent drive in an effort combat rising rates of homeless in the Hunter - around 2700 people are estimated to be homeless, an increase of 22 percent since 2011.
Mulligan Property Group is currently using their Nelson Street office as a local drop-off point for donations.
Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery said while serious work needed to be done to manage the issue of homelessness in the Hunter, these efforts would help the homeless in the meantime until they could could find safe and secure long-term accommodation.
"Whilst the end goal of connecting people with the necessary services and support to ultimately be housed is a priority, for many there are nights spent rough sleeping until arrangements can be made," said Ms Hornery.
"It's a wonderful initiative, I really support it, and I'm hoping our local community goes and has a look in their backyards for tents or in their garages and sheds to see what they can find."
New or used tents can be donated at Mulligan Property Group's office at 108 Nelson Street, Wallsend.
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