A $10,000 grant under the Empowering and Supporting Local Communities program has been awarded to Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre.

Gurmesh Singh, Member for Coffs Harbour, said this NSW Government grants program provides funding for organisations delivering critical grassroots support to the community in response to the pandemic.

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“I couldn’t be prouder of the incredible work happening across our community in response to COVID with local organisations like Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre leading the charge,” said Mr Singh.

Di Woods, Manager Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre, told News Of The Area the funding is being used to continue to assist local families.

“Throughout COVID Coffs Harbour has increasingly experienced a high level of ‘working poor’ families, where both parents are in full and/or part time employed but still struggle to make ends meet.

“Contributing to this are the relatively high Council rates for homeowners and the shortage of rental properties, which has forced rental prices to become out of reach for many families.

“COVID has significantly added to local housing stress, with rental prices significantly escalating; on top of this people have lost employment.”

Many families are now impacted by food insecurity, as more of the budget is allocated towards keeping a roof over their heads.

Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre has stepped up over the past 12 months to help struggling families keep food on their table.

“It is a hand up, rather than a handout,” said Di.

“We hope that it supports families with a little relief to keep them managing the best they can.

“Throughout COVID with increased need around food, we have been so amazingly grateful for the many donations of meals and pantry items that have been donated from an array of community members to help us support families who were struggling to make ends meet.”

Supplies came from a range of anonymous donors, schools and OzHarvest.

“From initially offering OzHarvest two days a week, we extended to five to meet demand.”

This demand has not subsided.

“We are thankful for the funding boost, which will help us to be able to supply more pantry items to help people have basic ingredients to prepare healthy meals and essential items that families need, such as baby products.”

By Andrea FERRARI