The Dubbo Neighbourhood Centre (DNC) has launched its annual Christmas appeal by extending a helping hand to some of the region’s most vulnerable.
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The centre is calling for donations of food, toys and gifts for its Christmas hampers.
Executive officer Debbie Todkill has also urged any residents worried by Nguumambiny Indigenous Corporation’s possible closure to reach out to the DNC.
At the time Ms Field said personal issues and an unsuccessful funding bid led to her decision. She may return in a few months depending on funding outcomes and personal circumstances.
Ms Todkill said the DNC’s doors would be open to any Nguumambiny clients in need of additional support.
“It doesn’t matter what your need is because there is no stigma attached,” Ms Todkill said.
“We like to think we’re a no wrong door approach.”
Lifeline Central West and the Salvation Army run the SMART (Self Management and Recovery Training) program out of the centre.
DNC also hosts parenting groups and offers domestic violence counselling.
Ms Todkill said there was also the potential to start new services “depending on the demand”.
Staff can also direct people in need to other relevant services around town.
Dubbo Regional Council is a major supporter of the DNC. Ms Todkill urged local businesses to help support the service.
“Our doors are always open for businesses to come on board for sponsorship,” she said.
“We’re also trying to find sponsors to get the community directory back up and running.”
Residents have already started donating to the centre’s Christmas appeal, Ms Todkill said, but more was needed.
“We’re collecting toys but we know there’s also a lot of elderly people in the community who get forgotten,” Ms Todkill said.
“We just hope we can make a difference and bring some joy.”
To contribute, deliver any non-perishable food items, toys or gifts to the Dubbo Neighbourhood Centre at 1/80 Gipps Street or call 6882 2100.