The theme for this year’s Neighbourhood Centre Week was ‘Ripples of Change’.
Every action, no matter how small, has the power to create a ripple effect — spreading kindness, sparking ideas, and strengthening communities.
Held between May 12 and 18, the annual national celebration offers a unique opportunity to recognise the work being done by more than 1,000 Neighbourhood Centres in local communities across Australia.
Samaritans Information and Neighbourhood Centre (SINC) was one of the facilities being recognised.
The Cessnock-based service assists people who live throughout the Hunter Valley by offering information, support, emergency assistance and centre-based activities.
SINC is utilised by 15 visiting services on a regular basis.
Samaritans Community Service Manager Jo Eddie says the facility relies on its people to flourish.
Neighbourhood Centre Week, she says, offers an opportunity to publicly recognise their efforts.
“SINC is part of more than 100 services offered by the Newcastle Anglican welfare agency year-round,” Jo says.
“It has been an integral part of the Hunter and Cessnock community for over 30 years, offering ripples of change through strong social connections and support networks to people in need.”
Senior Worker Denise Crossley and administration assistant Benita Hudson are among the silent heroes deserving recognition.
“Our dedicated workers like Denise and Benita are led by the people we support to help children, young people, families, and the community who are experiencing or at risk of vulnerability,” Jo explains.
“They are invaluable to us and the people we support.”
Senior Worker Denise Crossley has been working at SINC for more than 15 years.
During that time, she has established connections with local businesses, community groups and services that donate food, toys and other items.
“I’m very proud of the Cessnock community,” Denise says.
“It has very kindly provided food and gifts for those who have been in crisis over these past 30 years. All items donated have remained in Cessnock to be given out to those in need throughout our local area.”
For more information on Samaritans Information and Neighbourhood Centre click here.
For more information on how you can volunteer with Samaritans click here.
