Neighborhood Centre Gets a Little Help

06 January 25

Freemasons on the Central Coast

Toukley Neighbourhood Centre – the heart of the community – provides early intervention strategies for the disadvantaged and vulnerable so all people are empowered to meet their needs and achieve their full potential.

Last year, with rising damp problems and mould contributing to much sickness amongst staff and the possibility of this affecting visiting adults and children, the decision was made that the Centre had to relocate.

This year it was arranged that the Centre would lease the Toukley Uniting Church premises. Although a smaller space, this offered a far better layout. A few modifications were needed but these were quickly made with help from the local community. Freemasons on the Central Coast were able to assist by providing two new laptops to replace old, outdated computers. According to Centre staff, the new laptops and software have enabled much easier and more efficient provision of the services needed within the neighbourhood.

The Centre now has a better database for keeping client records; for the ordering and controlling of foodstuffs; arranging delivery of food parcels; production of staff rosters for reception and back office; referrals and counselling and housing information.

The Centre is open to all, including families with children and people of either sex.

Much of the Centre’s focus is on providing food services with food supplied through Foodbank who deliver supplies for a donation to offset delivery costs.

Various services are available, such as housing referrals via the Toukley Shelter and clothing where all items received are sorted, cleaned and made available through the Op Shop.

Rebecca, Liz and Chris expressed their sincere thanks to Freemasons on the Central Coast for the valuable contribution of laptops and software enabling more efficient provision of the ‘Hand Up’ – not hand out – services that are the philosophy of the Centre.

Above: Representatives from Freemasons on the Central Coast present 
a cheque for $1,876 to the Toukley Neighbourhood Centre