WE ASK EVERYONE WHO REQUIRES OUR FOOD OR ER VOUCHER PROGRAM TO WAIT AT THE DOOR WHILE STAFF ASSIST YOU. THE CENTRE HAS REMAINED OPEN PROVIDING FACE TO FACE SUPPORT FOR THE PAST 2 1/2 YEARS, NONE OF MY STAFF HAVE WORKED FROM HOME. PLEASE SUPPORT MY STAFF NOW AS WE HAVE VULNERABLE STAFF, & STAFF WHO HAVE VULNERABLE FAMILY MEMBERS. THE CENTRE WILL HAVE TO CLOSE IF MY STAFF FALL ILL & TO SUPPORT YOU WE ALL NEED TO STAY SAFE.

Winmalee Neighbourhood Centre provides a range of financial and material support to the community who are facing financial crisis, however we have changed how we will deliver these services due to the Coronavirus Health Directives. 

Although we have to change how we operate we will still be providing  a non-judgemental, and confidential service that maintains the dignity of the individuals we assist.

Please see below for details on how we have altered delivery.

Fresh Food Program-this will still be available 4 days per week but we will ask you to wait on the verandah while you choose what foods you would like (a list will be provided). Staff or volunteers will pack your bag and hand it to you. This food is for people facing financial crisis and due to the increase in need we do not always have a supply.

Utility Assistance-this includes electricity, water and gas (Telstra vouchers are no longer provided). We will ask you to make an appointment and email your most recent bill and a photo of your Centrelink card/licence. Interviews will be conducted over the phone and please tell us your circumstances on why this assistance is required as this is a mandatory requirement of 'Energy, Climate Change and Sustainability | Department of Planning, Industry and Environment'. Access is limited to twice per financial year, however if you have recently become unemployed extra allocations may be possible.

Winmalee Community Food Cupboard

Thursday Food Cupboard-We understand the impact that unemployment, mortgage stress, rental stress and the costs of everyday food items have on families. The community cupboard was initiated to support families through tough times and was the first in the Blue Mountains. Unfortunately the Food Cupboard only covers the Blue Mountains as it is not funded by any service and relies on generous donations from communities and volunteering of staff. Access for community is fortnightly at present due to the lack of funds. The weekly buying sheet changes and people can buy 10 items for $10 or 15 items for $15. The choices range from meat, animal food, laundry etc. If you would like to know more about the cupboard please ring the centre. 

KMart vouchers-the same guidelines as our food vouchers.

Fuel vouchers-the same guidelines as our food vouchers.

Work Development Orders-you can still apply for the WDO's program but community hours will be available depending on programs. 

Food Vouchers-to access vouchers you will need to make an appointment. 

We also have support to help with finances with our budgeting consultant.

For our Fresh Food Outreach programs we ask you to ring the appropriate centre to enquire if they are still open and providing food 

To assist people with their immediate crisis situation through a grant from Dept. Social Services the Centre can now provide Wood Vouchers, Coles Food Vouchers, Woolworths Vouchers, KMart Vouchers, Food packages (to suit dietary requirements), Fuel cards, and water supply and cartage for those on tank water. This funding is meeting a huge gap in our ER programs.

Tax help

If you earn less than $60,000 a year, you may be eligible for free help from our team of ATO-trained and accredited volunteers. They can lodge your return or complete your non-lodgement advice and can also claim a refund of franking credits. Appointments are only available from beginning of August to the end of October each year. To learn whether you qualify for the service ring the Centre.