Overview of Braidwood Life Centre Inc.
As a registered charity with deductible gift recipient status, the primary objects of Braidwood Life Centre are the relief of poverty, distress, suffering, misfortune, disability, isolation and homelessness and to work for the benefit of health and wellbeing of the community within the Braidwood (and villages) community, postcode 2622. This includes families, children, youth, the elderly and Indigenous community. Projects arise from connection and consultations with individuals and families and together supporting opportunities to grow wellbeing and respect for diversity in the Braidwood and surrounding villages.
How we work
To achieve the primary objectives, we work cooperatively with other community organisations in Braidwood, for example Braidwood MPS, Braidwood Central School, St. Bedes Primary School, the CWA, Commonwood Farm, and the St. Vincent de Paul conference space.
Current activities either supplement work done by other groups or fills gaps currently not met by other groups.
Relief of financial distress
A strong component of the work carried out is the relief of financial distress for people with low income, disability and aged pensions and generally any individual or family experiencing distress due to financial pressures.
We have established Gumtree Cottage, through accessing a cottage from the local hospital and completing building renovations, plumbing and electrical work. Thanks to the Community Enterprise Foundation and Club Grants for their support. Gumtree Cottage will provide emergency accommodation for up to three months to people who find themselves homeless or needing to find safety from family violence or other distressing situations.
We provide a healthy food pantry, including non-perishable items, and fresh vegetables, eggs, meat trays or meat voucher. The Food Pantry is entirely run with volunteers, fundraising and community donations. In 2019 and 2021 we received a contribution from Feed Appeal towards accessing pantry staples to provide food hampers tindividuals and families who require this assistance.
We can provide a petrol voucher when those experiencing difficulties require to get to Queanbeyan, Goulburn or Batemans Bay for doctors appointments or Centrelink appointments. Each of these towns are close to 100 kms each way.
We work to identify vulnerable groups with the community and address strategies to support and meet identified needs.
Support and Referral Service
The BLC provides a referral service to other services in surrounding areas. We can connect you with financial counsellors, employment assistance, parenting support, domestic violence support and counselling.
Parent support groups, home schooling groups and a playgroup have been offered in the although some are in abeyance due the Covid restrictions.
Dementia Australia attend on a monthly basis to support both individuals living with dementia and their carers.
A Pastoral Care project is currently in abeyance.
Volunteer led
BLC is managed by a community management committee, committed and dedicated to the Objectives. The three Braidwood churches are represented on the committee along with eight community members.
Key priorities of the BLC Management Committee are to maintain our current range of services to the community: local community groups, such as Braidwood Community Bank, Lions Club, Lodge of Truth, Belle Real Estate and many individual BLC members are generous in financial support, which enables this vital work to continue.
With support from the Braidwood Community Bank we were able to establish the Braidwood Community Help Fund to support people affected by the Black Summer Bushfires.
Volunteers who feel they would like to contribute to this community work are most welcome. Please call BLC phone, 0437989993, and speak with our Community Support Co-ordinator.
Appropriate induction, training and peer support will be provided.
Community Development Projects
The Life Centre supports and facilitates various groups to cultivate community development and wellbeing. Groups respond to identified needs, for example people seeking connections, healing and greater confidence.
Projects with an aim to educate and support community, such as the Champions Against Violence from sub-committee Braidwood Says No to Violence, and the Tune Up days have been very helpful in the community.
An annual Christmas gathering/lunch and distribution of hampers is held each year in collaboration with St. Vincent de Paul Conference Centre. Bendigo Community Bank has supported this event annually to date.
We celebrate success by recognising achievements and acknowledging the efforts of groups and individuals. We learn of needs in the community, gathering data to be shared in collaboration and cooperation, with local council and other groups, to develop and create greater resilience in our community.
Braidwood Life Centre participates in the QPRC recovery zoom meetings after the 2019/2020 Black Summer Fires. We were very active in supporting community during the fires, providing access to services for affected residents in a fair and equitable manner.
0437 989 993
