HUNTER COMMUNITY OPENS DOORS IN SOCIAL INCLUSION WEEK
The Hunter Community is coming together during National Social Inclusion Week to open doors for people in tough times, at the inaugural Hunter Homeless Connect Day, Thursday 26 November at Newcastle PCYC, Broadmeadow.
Spokesperson for the community coalition, Centrelink Manager, Nicola Hirschhorn said that Social Inclusion Week is the chance to give others a fair go and to realise that we all benefit when we feel connected, supported and cared for.
An inclusive society is one in which we all feel valued and have the chance to participate in social, recreational, cultural and civic opportunities; to participate fully in the life of our society," Nicola said.
Presented by a community coalition, guests who are homeless or doing it tough and at risk of homelessness will have the opportunity to:
- enjoy a delicious two course lunch, all day barbecue, pancakes and other treats
- have their hair cut or be pampered with a facial, shoulder massage and manicure
- join in a game of soccer, table tennis, boxing training or gym session
- get creative with a community artwork, bag stencilling, card making and other craft
- fix a bike to take away for free, restring their guitar, or join in a jam session
- pick up some clothes, a food hamper or bag of toiletries and other essential items
- be immunised against the flu and tetanus and have a range of health checks
- be entertained with a traditional Islander dance group and Johnny Cash tribute band
- or choose from even more social, cultural and recreational activities
Guests will also have access to a one-stop-shop of services including accommodation and housing, legal and financial, family services, a job and study centre as well as a whole range of health services.
Nicola Hirschhorn said that the day has been made possible through the generous contributions of individuals, businesses, churches and service groups, non-government organisations and agencies of all levels of government.
The Hunter community has really got together during this Social Inclusion Week to welcome people who are doing it tough, lend them a little extra support and put together a great day out for our guests."
Hunter Homeless Connect Day
PCYC, Curley Rd, Broadmeadow, 9.00am to 2.00pm
- 10.00am welcome and opening – Fijian Association singing group, smoking ceremony and welcome by Lady Mayoress
- 12.00pm Fijian Dance Group (traditional costume)
- 1.00pm close and Soul Cafe Johnny Cash Band
Further information can be found at www.hunterhomelessness.org.au
