Lancefield Neighbourhood House’s ‘townhouse’ has relocated and entered a new era.
The community asset has provided the town with social connections, support and services for more than three decades, and will continue to do so from its new site at 5 The Crescent, Lancefield.
Team members celebrated the move last month, to a townhouse better fit for purpose that the organisation now owns.
The purchase was made possible with the support of a government grant and funds raised through its community op shop. Several local businesses have also chipped in to help get it up and running.
Servicing a range of needs from computer / printing access and social connection, to vital health appointment transport and food share services for those struggling to make ends meet, there is a friendly team to help.
Operations manager Vivien Philpotts has seen the organisation grow over the years and understands more than most how simple interactions between people there can change lives for the better.
“I have seen people come in to do some photocopying and have it change their lives, because it led to an interaction that steered them down a different path, or they could have had a conversation with someone that they really needed,” Ms Philpotts said.
“Providing a space where people can just sit and talk is a big part of what this space is about.”
The new space is equipped with comfortable couches, a dining area and kitchen for social interaction, as well as bathroom facilities, outdoor space, office area and food store, including six industrial fridges / freezes to support its Food Share program.
Food Share began as a partnership with Romsey Neighbourhood House and is available to people in the community struggling to make ends meet. People who register can access the food store using a monthly credit points based system.
Food stores are stocked through Bendigo Foodshare, Secondbite via Coles Woodend and Coles Gisborne, Foodbank and donations from the local community.
Community members are also encouraged to swap, share and take or donate food as needed. Donations of in-date foods and excess produce are welcomed.
“Someone may have a huge crop of pears or other food, and instead of that going to waste, they can either donate those or swap them for something else they need,” Ms Philpotts said.
“It operates on the motto: ‘take what you need, give what you can’, with the philosophy that no one should ever go hungry.”
Anyone seeking support or wishing to make a donation is encouraged to contact the neighbourhood house directly.
The new townhouse is located at 5 The Crescent, Lancefield, opposite the town hall.
