Mr CLAYTON BARR (Cessnock): My Electorate is very fortunate to have 3 Neighbourhood Centres in the Lake Macquarie part of the Cessnock Electorate. Edgeworth Memorial Neighbourhood Centre is located at 1 Minmi Road Edgeworth. The Centre is a not-for-profit organisation and operates 4 days a week – Monday to Thursday, with a focus on young people and families who are looking for support, connection and resources. The Centre can provide information, advice and referrals to other local services, connection through community events, and support services such as free groceries, information sessions or training and individual support for young people and parents. The Centre’s programs include playgroup, community pantry, a craft group, community garden, yoga and volunteer opportunities. For Young People the Centre can be the first point of contact when they need support – such as offering individual support, mentoring, counselling and help with school or TAFE, as well as connecting with other services regarding health and mental health, financial hardship, employment and housing. For Families the Centre can offer free groceries through its Community Pantry program, Financial Counselling, as well as help to connect with local services related to health, housing, victim support, legal help. Thank you for all you do.
