They also help address loneliness by creating safe, welcoming and inclusive places for people of all ages and backgrounds to meet and form meaningful connections.
With Greenacre Neighbourhood Centre (GNC) offering a free yoga class to try last week, they also provide a regular weekly yoga class ($20 monthly or $8 a class), a weekly foodshare service, counselling services, playgroups and even English classes.
“We’re always interested to hear about the community’s ideas and suggestions for what else we can offer and have a range of volunteer opportunities that can get you job or study ready,” GNC CEO Maria Votano said.
“We are the traditional heart of the community and a perfect destination for newcomers, those seeking low-cost activities and to meet others plus there is always someone here to listen if you just want to drop in for a chat and a cuppa.”
Similarly, Chester Hill Neighbourhood Centre features playgroups, aged care support programs, including a weekly seniors lunch, before and after school and vacation care, youth drop ins, homework help, online cooking classes, emergency relief for power bills and even a woodcrafting group or the opportunity to be part of their community garden team.
“We are also hosting a free movie night for Families Week next week on Friday, May 19, at Chester Hill Public School, including a sausage sizzle and face painting, and a Biggest Morning Tea on Thursday, May 25, to which everyone’s invited,” a spokesperson said.
To find out more, call Chester Hill Neighbourhood Centre, 9645 3700 or Greenacre Neighbourhood Centre, 9750 7982.
Offer safe, welcoming, inclusive spaces
NEIGHBOURHOOD centres have existed in NSW since at least 1961, growing along with the movements for self help, resident action and welfare rights.