Making Lives Better is the name of the game for the HUB Community Centre at Mid Murray Support Services, and this not-for-profit organisation is in for a treat with an unprecedented sum of money coming their way, thanks to the State Government.
The financial injection into community centres serves a crucial purpose – to address social isolation, promote a stronger sense of belonging within disadvantaged communities, and foster inclusive, equitable, and resilient local communities.
The HUB, located in the river town of Mannum, hosts numerous services which are available to the whole community. From outings on Mystery Bus Trips and Art Classes to Emergency Relief Food Hampers, Financial Counselling, and support for parents, the HUB is a one-stop shop for social connection and service support driven by a dedicated volunteer Board of Management.
The HUB is just one centre on the list as the revamped Community and Neighbourhood Development Program extends funding to 18 regional community centres, including Tailem Bend, Millicent, Goolwa, Port Lincoln, and the Southern Yorke Peninsula, in addition to several metropolitan locations.
Nat Cook commends the importance of Community Centres which she says “holds immense value for South Australians. Whether it’s through supporting social and economic engagement, or the act of volunteering and helping others, the impact of these centres cannot be overstated.”
The funding increase will provide much-needed long-term stability and security for the community sector. The new program incorporates extensive research and service development enhancements, ensuring that funding and services for community centres in South Australia are based on evidence, tailored to the unique needs of each community, and characterised by transparency and equity.
All funded community centres have demonstrated a strong connection to their communities with the delivery of high-quality services which will result in a minimum annual allocation of $99,000, which is a significant increase from the previous annual funding of $70,000. To add a cherry on top, rural and remote centres will receive additional funding which Community Services SA Board Chair, Christina Blumberg says “will help ensure the sustainability of the sector for years to come, providing safe and nurturing spaces for connection and addressing systemic disadvantage at a local community level.”
